fi^t^' 



^'■'^^ 



jt^-^i- :iiM^-i'^i 



PROBLEMS !N TROOP LEADING 



MP 



lo 



PROBLEMS 

IN 

TROOP LEADING 



AN INI ANTR^ DIVISION 



J^ril><nc(i Ir 



nKP.lRTMEXT Oi MILir.lRY .IRI 

Thr .lrm\ S,rii<r Sr/iuo/s fo^f L c,»v<!^ w « ttTh 






Pi-L'S-s of Thf Army Sorvic-f Scl 
Fort Leavenworth. K.-msas 



i9if; 






SEP 29 1919 



Introduction 



IN the followinjr pages, an attempt has been made to outline the 
troop leading; of an infantry division as part of a field army 

in attack and in defense. 

Part I deals with the offensive. The situations from 1 to 20 con- 
stituted five troop leading- problems solved by the Line Class in the 
Spring of 1913. They have been re-written, in minor particulars, to 
conform to the changes in organization and regulations since that 
time. For the convenience of those desiring to make a systematic 
study of the text, the original requirement for each situation and a 
statement of time alloted for its solution are given. To complete 
the sketch of the work of the division during the day under considera- 
tion, short studies of the leading of artillery units have been inter- 
polated as situations sub A; and, after the 20th numbered situation, 
there has been added a study of the main actions and incidents to 
the close of the day, including a description of the ammunition and 
ration supply, sanitary and provost arrangements. 

Part II takes a division on the defensive. Its situations con- 
stituted a series of seven troop leading problems solved by the Line 
Class in the Spring of 1915, amplified by the addition of a study of 
the leading of the artillery brigade. 

Both parts are for use primarily as texts for the Line Class; 
and the length of the subject has been fitted to the time allotted in 
the course for conference. No attempt, consequently, has been made 
at an exhaustive study; simply enough is presented to furnish a 
somewhat sketchy picture of the manner in which a division and its 
members, as part of a considerable force, might be handled in the two 
main forms of tactics, the attack and the defense. 

The situations and solutions are the work of a number of in- 
structors of the Department of Military Art. The name of the re- 
sponsible officer immediately precedes his work. 

Valuable criticism and suggestions have been received from the 
remaining members of the Department and from Lieutenant Moreno 
of the Department of Languages. 



Table of Contents 



Part I— The Offensive 

A March Fokwakd — Captain Fiske 1 

Advance Guard Action 14 

Advance Guard Reconnaissance of an Enemy in Position 23 

The Attack 30 

Deployment of the Division 30 

The Artillery Brigade — Captain Scott 32 

Second Brigade — Captain Fiske 33 

First Brigade 3<) 

Progress of the engagement — Incidents and actions 3-30 to 

5-80 P. M. ^ 4l> 

The Decision — General A's estimate of the situation &1 

General A's orders 53 

The decisive attack — 3d Brigade 53 

Events G-30 to 7-30 P. M 55 

Advance of accompanying batteries — Captain Scott 56 

The pursuit — Captain Fiske 58 

A night attack 59 

Bivouac During Combat 63 

Division headquarters to 9-00 P. M 63 

3d Brigade 65 

Ammunition service 66 

Supply — forage and rations __ 68 

Sanitary service 68 

Trains, military police 70 

Part II — On the Defenj^ive 

Situation — Captain Fiske '^3 

Divisional Cavalry — Captain Eltinge 7?> 

Night of March 16-17 73 

Morning of March 17 81 

advance Guard — Captain Fiske 86 

Hq. 1st Brigade, 8-00 to 10-00 A. M., March 17 86 

2d Infantry 90 

The Division — Preparation of a Position 92 

Div. Hq., 7-45 A. M. to 1-00 P. M 92 

3d Brigade ^5 

7th Infantrv — Captain Drum 97 

1st Bn., 7th Infantry — Captain Weeks 106 

Xth Infantry — Captain Drum 99 

;)th Infantry 100 

2d Brigade— Captain Haskell 101 

4th Infantry 104 

1st Bn., 4th Infantry — Captain Weeks 108 

Co. C, 4th Infantry 109 

The Artillery Brigade, 8-00 A. M. to 3-00 P. M.— Captain 

Scott ^' 110 

Division Camp — Captain Fiske 127 

Div. Hq. 6-30 P. M 127 

3d Brigade 130 

vi 



<^^u^<^ 



See ^iett^^^^S ^ 



Part 1 The Offensive 



A MARCH FORWARD 

(Cai'Tain Kiskk I 
.Situation N«>. I 

A Blue field army of three divisions is moving north- 
ward, in hostile territory, to attack Red forces, known to 
be assembling for the protection of Gettysburg. 

On the night of September 1-2, 1915, the 1st, 2d, and 
Md Divisions are, respectively, about Union Mills (one inch 
map), Taneytown, and Bridgeport. The 1st Division camps 
with its three infantry brigades north of Pipe Creek : the 
'M Brigade (less one regiment) east of Union Mills; the 
2d, west of Union Mills to the lirst stream joining Pipe 
Creek from the north; the 1st, west of that stream. The 
Artillery Brigade, with engineers, signal troops, and am- 
bulance companies attached, is south of the 2d and 3d In- 
fantry Brigades; the 1st Cavalry, Avest of the artillery. 
The 9th Infantry is outposting the line village of Silver 
Run — Cherry Grove School. The trains are north of West- 
minster. 

The l.st Division receives at midnight the following- 
orders from Army Headquarters: 

Repoit.s indicate that the enemy has about two divisions, and in- 
tends to ^ve battle in a position extending eastward from TW 
TAVERNS. The army will advance to attack tomorrow, the 2d in- 
stant. The 1st Division, moving; by littlestown, will locate and at- 
tack the hostile left. The 2d and 3d Divisions advance against the 
portion of the enemy's position west of alu)WAV creek. 

Company A, 9th Infantry, and Troop A, 1st Cavalry, 
are permanently detailed as military police and train guard. 
Troop E, 1st Cavalry, is detailed for one week with divi- 
sion headquarters. Except one platoon, which is General 
A's personal escort, this troop is available for duty with 
security detachments. 

No orders for September 2d have yet been issued. 

1 






2 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Required : 

Orders of the commanding general, 1st Division, to 
the time of marching. 

(Time for solution, two hours) 



Situation No. 2 

General A. commanding the 1st Division, issues orders 
as follows: Verbally, to the colonel, 1st Cavalry, at 12-30 
A. M.: 

Reports indicate that the enemy has about two divisions, and in- 
tends to give battle in a position extending eastward from Two Ta- 
verns. Our army advances today to attack; the 2d and 3d Divisions 
19-30 A M against the portions of the hostile front west of Alloway Creek. 
This Division marches on Littlestown. You will clear Union Mills 
by 4-4.5 A. M., and will determine the enemy's positions east of Al- 
loway Creek. It is particularly important to locate his left. Let 
me have reports on the Baltimore Turnpike, south of Littlestown, by 
8-30 A. M. Leave one troop for our advance guard. 

To an aid, at 12-40 A. M. : 

The army is advancing to attack the enemy, who is reported to 
be in position east of Two Taverns. This Division marches on Lit- 
tlestown; the 2d Division marches to cross the Baltimore Pike west 
12-40 \. M. of Alloway Creek. You will take ten men from the headquarters 
troop and join the 2d Division in Taneytown by daybreak. Remain 
with the headquarters of that division today as information officer. 

1st Div., 

UNION MILLS. 

2 Sept., 15, 12-45 A. M. 
Field Orders, 
No. 3. 

1. Troops will be ready to march today as follows: 
1st Brig., 1st Bn. 1st L. A., Co. A and mtd. sec. Co. B, Engrs., 
and 1st Amb. Co., at 4-40 A. M. 

2d Brig., 1st Brig F. A. (less 1 bn.), 1st Bn. Sig., at 6-20 A. M. 
3d Brig, (less 9th Inf.), 1st Bn. Engrs. (less 1 co.) and Amb. 

12-45 \ M ^'o^- (^^^^ 1 ^°-)' ^* '^"^^ ^' ^• 

" ' ■ 2. Outpost tioops will remain in position until further orders. 

3. Orders will be issued at 4-00 A. M. 

A, 
Maj. Gen. 

By messenger to several headquarters; by telephone 
to outpost. 



THE OFFENSIVE 



Field Orders. 

No. 4. 
Geo. Sur. Map-'»<)2300. 

Troops 
(a) Independent Cavalrj- 

Col. B. 
1st Cav. (less 3 trs.) 
Mtd. sec. Co. B, Engrs. 



(b) Advance Guard: 

Brig. Gen. C. 
1st Brig. 
1st Bn., 1st L. A. 
Tr. I and I Tr. E, 

1st Cav. 
Co. A, Engrs. 
1st Amb. Co. 



(c) Main Body — in order 

of march : 
Plat. Tr. E, 1st Cav. 
1st Bn. Sig. (less detchs.) 
2d Brig, (less 2 regts.) 
1st Brig. F. A. (less 1 bn. 

and c. tns.) 
Remainder 2d Brig. 
3d Brig. 
1st Bn. Engrs. (less 1 co. 

& mtd. detch. Co. B.) 
C. Tns. art. , 
Amb. Cos. (less 1 co.) 



1st Div,, 

UNION MILLS, 

2 Sept., 15, 4-00 A. M. 



1. The enemy is reported to have 
about two divisions, and to be in posi- 
tion northwest of littlestown. Our 
army marches to attack today; the 2d 
and 3d Divisions against the por- 
tions of the hostile front west of allo- 

WAY CREEK. 

2. This Division will march on lit- 
tlestown. 

3. (a) The Independent Cavalry will 
clear union mills by 4-45 A. M., and 
will locate the enemy's positions east of 
alloway creek. 

(b) The Advance Guard will clear 
the stream crossing near the northwest 
exit of UNION mills, at 6-00 A. M., 
marching thence by the Baltimore and 

GETTYSBURG TURNPIKE. 

(c) The Main Body will start from 
the same crossing, northwest of union 
MILLS, at 6-20 A. M., and will follow the 
Advance Guard at one mile. 

(d) The Outpost will close in to the 
TURNPIKE when the support of the Ad- 
vance Guard passes the line of resist- 
ance, and will take its place in column. 

4. At 9-00 A. M., the division trains, 
iimmunition leading, will follow the 
troops. Field trains will join the divi- 
sion trains at union mills. 

5. Messages to the reserve of the ad- 
vance guard. 

A, 



4-00 A.M. 



_ . Maj. Gen. 

Copies to officers detailed to receive; by messenger to 
commander trains. 



Situation No. 2-A 

( Captain Scott) 

Field Orders No. 3 is received by the Adjutant, 1st F. 
A. Brig., at 1-00 A. M., Sept. 2, 1915. 



Required : 

His action. 

Major K sends the following memorandum : 



4 PROBLKMS IN TROOP LEADING 

1st P. A. Brig.. 

UNION MILLS, 

2 Sept., 15, 1-05 A. M. 
1, 1st Bii. 1st L. A. marches at 4-40 A. M. Advance Guard. 
Gen. C. 
^-'►■> A. M 2. Brig, (less 1st Bn. 1st L. A.) marches at H-20 A. M. Orders 

at 5-00 A. M. 

H. Two scouts 2d L. A. report to Lt. X, Aid. at 4-00 A. M. 

By command. Gen. E : 
K. 
Brig. Adj. 

By messenger to commanding officers, 1st L. A., 1st Bn. 
1st L. A., and 2d L. A. 

Verbally to Lt. X, Aid : 

While at headquarters I was informed that the enemy has two 
divisions, and intends to fight in a position extending east from Two 
Taverns. Our army attacks, the 2d and 3d Divisions west of Alloway 
Oeek, our division east of that creek. 

Our cavalry clears Union Mills at 4-45 A. M., and goes to de- 
termine the hostile position east of Alloway Creek. 

The General has directed that in the event of such a move, you 
are to accompany the cavalry as information officer. Take two or- 
derlies and two scouts of the 2d h. A., who will repoit to you at 4-00 
A. M. 

Orders issued at division headquaiters at 4-00 A. M. Join me 
there to get oriented. 

Field Orders No. 4 is received by Major K at 4-00 A. M. 

Ke<(uircd : 

Orders of General E. commanding 1st Field Artillery 
Brigade. 

General E issues the following orders ; 

1st F. A. Brig., 

UNION MILLS, 
2 Sept.. 15. 5-00 A. M. 
Field Orders. 

No. 4. 
Geo. Sur. Map, ^tosoo- 

1. The enemy is reported to have about two divisions, and to be 
in position northwest of littlestown. Our army marches to attack 
today, the 2d and 3d Divisions west of alloway creek: this division 

5-00 A. VI. marches on littlestown. Our cavalry cleared union mills at 4-45 
A. M.; our advance guard clears the stream crossing northwest of 
irNlON MILLS at 6-00 A. M. 

2. Brigade (less 1st Bn. 1st L. A. and C. Tns.) follows leading 
regiment of 2d Brig. March from camp at ()-20 A. M. Order of 
march, — l.st L. A.. 2d L. A. 



THE OFFENSIVE 5 

Regimental reconnaissance parties will manli at the head of the 
brigade. 

Combat trains, under Lt. Col. H, will follow the Kni;is. at the 
tail ol" the main body. 

3. F. Tn.s. wait orders of Commander of Tii.s. 

4. Me.SvSaftes to reserve of advance ft'uard. 

K, 
l>ri.u-. (Jen. 

Copies to regt. and bn. comdrs. 



iCaitain Ki.ski;i 

Based upon the march order of the division. 



K«'<Iiiir«'d : 



Orders, commander, advance guard. 
(Time for solution, oiu' hcnij) 



Situation No. '.i 

The advance Kuai({ commander issues orders as fol- 
lows : 

AdvaiKc Guard, 1st Div., 
IN ION MILLS, 
2 .Sept. 15, 4-.'?0 A. M. 
Field Oi-ders, 

No. 1. 
1-inch Geological. 

1. The enemy is reported to have about two divisions, and to be 
in position northwest of littlestowx. Our army marches to attack 
today; the 2d and .3d Divisions a.^'ain.st the portion of the hostile 
front west of alloway creek. Our division marches on littlestown. 
The 1st Cav. clears union mills by 4-4o A. ^M., and locates the enemy 

east of ALLOWAY CREEK. 

2. This command constitutes the advance .uua rd of the division. 

(a) Support: 
Col. D. 

1st Inf. (less 1 bn.) 

Plat. Tr. E, 1st Cav. 

Co, A, Engrs. (less detch.) 4.y») ^ jyj 

(b) Reserve — in order of march: 
Plat. Tr. E. l.st Cav. 

.3d Bn. 1st Inf. 

Lst Bn. l.st L. A. (less c. tns.) 

3d Inf. 

Art. c. tns. 

1st Amb. Co. 

(c) Right Flank (niard: 
Col. E. 



6 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

2d Inf. 

Tr. I, 1st Cav. 

Detch. Engrs. 

3. (a) The Support, clearing the stream ci-ossing near the 
northwest exit of union mills, at 5-20 A. M., will march by the 

BALTIMORE and GETTYSBURG TURNPIKE. 

(b) The Reserve, starting from the same stream ci-ossing, 
at 5-30 A. M., will follow the Support at one half mile. 

(c) The Right Flank Guard will clear that stream crossing 
by 5-00 A. M., and will march by 622 — 768 — 743 (road irregularly one 
mile east of the turnpike.) 

4. The field trains of the advance guard will assemble in the 
camp of the 1st Brigade, under Captain K, (Q. M.) 3d Inf., as soon 
as the division clears UNION mills, and will join the division trains 
when the latter come up. 

1st Amb. Co. will send two ambulances with the Flank Guard. 

5. Messages to the support. 

C, 
Brig. Gen. 

Dictated to officers detailed to receive. 



Situation No. 3-A 

(Captain Scott) 
Required : 

Actions and orders of Major C, 1st L. A., commanding 
1st Bn., 1st L. A. 

Major C receives the advance guard order at 4-30 A. M., 
assembles his officers and reads it to them, adding : 

The battalion will march at 5-25, by the road east of the stream. 

Order of march: A, B, C. 

Combat trains follow the infantry of the reserve. 

Lieutenant C (R. O. Btry. C) with two scouts will report to 
the flank guard commander at 5-00 A. M. as information officer. 

Other battery reconnaissance officers, with two scouts each, will 
report to me here at 5-00 A. M. 

Messages to the support. 



(Captain Fiske) 
Required : 

Orders of the support commander. 

(Time for solution, one hour) 



Situation No. 4 

The support commander issues verbal orders, at 4-40 



THE OPPENSIVE 7 

A. M., to his majors, staff, commanding officers Co. A, 
Engrs., Machine Gun Company, and platoon of cavalry, as 
follows : 

The enemy is reported to be about two divisions strong, and to 
have taken position northwest of Littlestown. Our army marches 
to attack today; the 2d Division, which is nearest to us, from Taney- 
town to strike the Baltimore Pike west of Alloway Creek. Our divis- 
ion marches on Littlestown. The 1st Cavalry starts immediately to 
locate the hostile positions east of Alloway Creek. Our brigade and 
a battalion of artillery form the advance guard of the division. The . .^ 
2d Infantry marches as a flank guard by 622—768—743 (the road *"*" '*• ™- 
roughly paralleling the Baltimore Pike and about a mile east of it). 
The 9th Infantry is outposting the line, village of Silver Run — Cherry 
Grove School. 

This Regiment (less 3d Battalion), Company A, Engineers, and 
a platoon of cavalry, constitute the support. The 3d Battalion, march- 
ing at the head of the reserve, follows the support at one half mile. 

Company A, Platoon Troop B, 1st Cavalry, and a detachment of 
engineers will form the advance party. It will march by the Bal- 
timore and Gettysburg Turnpike, preceding the remainder of the sup- 
port by 500 yards. 

The support proper will follow in the order: 1st Battalion (less 
Company A), Machine Gun Company, 2d Battalion, Company A, 
Engineers (less detachments) and Band. 

The field train will be reported to Captain K, 3d Infantry, as 
soon as the brigade clears camp. 

Messages to the head of the support proper. 

Form the regiment, except the 3d Battalion, at 4-55 A. M. 

At 4-55 A. M., the colonel marches his regiment (less ^-55 a.m. 
1 bn.) to a position on the Baltimore Pike, with the tail of 
the column at the designated stream, and halts the command. 
The engineers join. The colonel directs the commander of 
the advance party: 

Get your distance. Captain E, and await my signal to take up 
the march. 

At 5-20 A. M., the colonel signals. Forward, March. 5-20 a. m. 



Based upon the advance guard order. 



Keciuired : 



Orders of the flank guard commander. 
(Time for solution, one hour) 



Situation No. 5 

The commander of the right flank guard issues verbal 



8 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

orders/ at 4-35 A. M., to his majors, staff, commanders Ma- 
chine Gun Company and Troop B, 1st Cavalry, as follows : 

The enemy is reported to be about two divisions strong, and in 
position northwest of Littlestown. Our army marches to attack 
today. Our division moves via Littlestown. The 1st Cavalry is pre- 
ceding- the advance guard to locate the enemy. Our brigade and a 
battalion of artillery constitute the advance guard. The 1st Infantry 
is- the support and marches by the Baltimore— Gettysburg Turnpike. 

This Regiment marches as a Right Flank Guard by (i22 — 7^^ — 
74.3. 

Troop I will pi-ecede the advance guard of this Regiment by not 
more than two miles. It will reconnoiter from the Hanove?- Road, 
inclusive, to the (>22— 768 — 743 — 733 load, inclusive, and will ob- 
serve this area during- the passage of tiie division. It will send one 
jilatoon to join the advance guard. 

The 1st Battalion, Machine Gun Company, detachment engineers, 
and Platoon Troop I, will constitute our advance guard. 

The main body of the Regiment, in the order: 2d Battalion, 
3d Battalion, Band, and ambulances, will follow at 800 yards. 

The field train will be reported to Captain K. 3d Infantry, as 
soon as the brigade clears camp. 

Messages to the advance guard. 

Form the Regiment at 4-4.") A. M. 

The colonel marches the regiment in one body aloiijj: 
the designated road until the head of the column is approach- 
ing the outpost line, halts it. and directs the commander of 
th^ ad^•ance guard : 

Form your advance guard and, as soon as you are ready, take 
up the march. 

f{«'<Hiir«'d : 

1. Orders, commander of the advance party of the 
support. 

2. Orders, commander of advance guard, right Hank 
guard. 

(Time foi- solution, two bonis I 



Situation \» 



1. The commander of the ad\ance party forms his 
company at 4-48 A. M., the cavalry reports, and he issues 
orders as follows: 

Our army is advancing to attack the enemy, who is reported to 
have only two divisions, and to have occupied a position northwest 
of Littlestown. Our division marches on Littlestown today. The 



THE OFFENSIVE 9 

■Jd Division is next on our left, and is marchirifj today trom 
Taneytown to cross the Baltimore Pike west of AUoway Creek. The 
1st Cavalry is moving ahead of us to locate the enemy. Our brigade, 
with some artillery, is the advance guard of the division. Two bat- 
talions of our i-egiment and a company of engineers foma the support. 
The 2d Infantry marches as a right flank g-uard by a road running 
y-enerally about a mile east of our route. The Uih Infantry has an 
outpost line a mile or so to the north. 4-48 a. u. 

This Company, the cavah-y, and a detachment of engineers, con- 
stitute the advance party, marching by the Baltimore — Gettysburg 
Turnpike. We precede the remainder of the regiment by 500 yards. 

Lieutenant Y (commanding platoon of cavalry), go ahead at once 
with four troopei-s as the mounted point. After passing the outpost, 
so regulate your gait as to precede the dismounted point by half a 
mile to a mile. 

Direct the sergeant and the rest of your men to ride with me 
itetween the dismounted point and the company. Divide them into 
live patrols. I will personally order all lateral patrolling. l;>oth 
mounted and dismounted. 

Lieutenant L and the 1st Platoon (four squads), as the dis- 
mounted point, will precede the rest of the advance partv bv 400 
yards. 

Sergeant K will march at the rear of the advance party to trans- 
hiit signals from the remainder of the regiment. 

The dismounted point will remain with the companv until further 
orders. 

The captain then causes his lieutenant to march the 
company, in the regiment, to the designated stream crossmg. 
while he himself, mounted on the horse of a battalion rn-- 
derly, goes ahead with the cavalry to the crossing. 

When the colonel directs the captain to get his dis- 
tiince, he causes the advance party to move 500 yards down 
the road, and sends the point immediately on. to gain its 
400 yards. The engineers, upon joining, are directed to fol- 
low the company. 

2. The commander of the advance guard of the right 
Hank guard issues verbal orders, at 5-15 A. M., to his cap- 
tains, staff, commanders Machine Gun Company, detach- 
ment of engineers, and cavalry, as follows : 

Our army is advancing to attack the enemy, who is repoj'ted to 
have only two divisions and to be awaiting us in a position north- 
west of Littlestown. Our division marches on Littlestown today. 
The 1st Cavalry is preceding the advance guard to locate the enemy. 
Our brigade, with a battalion of artillery, constitutes the advance 
guard of the division. The 1st Infantry marches as support on the 
Baltimore Pike; this regiment as a right flank guard by the 022— . . 
768 — 743 road. The 9th Infantry outposts are just aliead of us. ^"^^ ^- ■^'- 
The greater part of Troop I is preceding our battalion as advance 
cavalry. 

This command is the advance guard of the regiment. 

Company A, Platoon Troop I. and the detachment of engineers 



10 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

will constitute the support, preceding the reserve by 600 yards. 

Companies B, C, D, and the machine guns will follow in tl^ order 
named. 

3Iessages to the head of the reserve. 

A statement of patrols sent out by the advance party of 
the 1st Infantry, and their routes between Silver Run and 
the stream two and a half miles northwest thereof, assum- 
ing an uninterrupted march to the latter stream. 

(Time for solution, one hour) 



Situation No. 7 

Patrols were sent out as follows: 
To right of road — 

(1) Three cavalrymen, starting at 587 (3-inch map), 
via 593 — 586 and unimproved road west of knolls 764 
and 787, to 727. 

(2) Three cavalrymen, starting at 727, to farm road 
400 yards east, by that road 400 yards northeast to farm 
house; across country towards knoll 742 to starting point 
of second farm road; thence north by this farm road and 
west by cross road to the turnpike near 629. 

(3) Four infantrymen, starting from the turnpike at 
a point 200 yards south of 589, to hill 744. 

(4) Four infantrymen, starting from the turnpike 
west of hill 744, through the timber 100 yards out from the 
road, to come in at bend in road just north of first stream 
line. 

(5) Four infantrymen, starting at 727, to examine the 
timber to the east and northeast, and to come back to the 
pike at 741. 

(6) Four infantrymen, starting at 741, to proceed 
north along nose, examining timber along stream lines, and 
to return to pike 300 yards south of 629. 

To left of road— 

(7) Three cavalrymen, starting at 589, to proceed by 
countrj^ roads west about 1,100 yards, thence north, to re- 
turn to pike 100 yards south of 727. 



THE OFFENSIVE U 

(8) Three cavalrymen, starting 100 yards south of 727, 
by country road generally west to Pleasant Grove S. H., 
thence half mile west to knoll 744, and to return, west of 
Pleasant Grove S. H., to pike at 693. 

(9) Three cavalrymen, starting at 741, to proceed via 
knolls 711 and 687, to Georgetown and back to turnpike at 
689, last two-thirds mile by unimproved road. 

(10) Four infantrymen, starting at 589, to proceed up 
nose 200 yards west to hill 743. 

(11) Four infantrymen, leaving pike 200 yards north 
of 589, to move through timber 100 yards west of pike, to 
come in again half mile farther north. 

(12) Four infantrymen, leaving pike by country road 
300 yards northwest of 727, to go to Pleasant Grove S. H., 
and to return to pike. 

Required: 

Orders for Patrols Nos. 1 and 3. 

(Time for solution, one hour) 



Situation No. 8 

Orders for Patrol No. 1 : 
Captain E to Corporal S: 

Take your patrol east on this road about three-quarters of a 
mile to the first road junction, turn north thereat, and continue 
north by a country road from a second road junction a quarter mile 
beyond the first. Come back into the pike about a mile north of 
this point (587). Take the left hand road at each junction. You 
have about two miles to go. Time yourself so as to get back to this 
pike in about twenty minutes. Look for the flank guard fi'om a 
knoll which lies a couple hundred yards east of your route, and about 
a mile and a half from here. 

The captain hands the corporal a rough sketch of his 
route. 

Orders for Patrol No. 3 : 
Captain E to Corporal J: 

Take three men of your squad and patrol to the top of that high 
ground to the north (hill 744). Remain there in observation until 
the 3d Battalion approaches, and then come in to the pike and report 



12 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

to the major of the 3d Battalion. Remain with the 3d Battalion un- 
til the end of the march, then rejoin the company. 

(End of .solution. Situation No. 7) 



Situation \«». 8-A — Artiller.'* K4'<-<>niiaissan4*4- 

(Cai-tain Sfon I 

The suppoit ivS marching through the village ot" Silver 
O-30 A. M. Run. The artilleiy reconnaissance parties are marching 
ahead of it and behind the parties of the advance guard 
commander and of the support conmiander: 

Major C addresses the advance guard commander : 

General, I wish to reconnoiter near here and to prepare for poss- 
sible action should an enemy be developed on the other side of the 
valley. 

(Assumed that permission is granted.) 

I will leave an agent with you. Please inform me thmusrh him 
when our advance is in possession of the crest. 

Corporal X (apent). report to the brigade adjutant. Take 
Private O with you. 

Kequirt'd : 

Actions and orders of Major C. 

Major C turns out of column and summons his parties. 

I wi.sh the ridge we are on to be reconnoitered for artillery posi- 
tions, for use in case an enemy is developed across the valley. 

Captain D (Bn. Adj.). reconnoiter the immediate vicinity of the 
village. 

Lieutenant A, reconnoiter to the east; Lieutenant B, to the west. 

Report to me here by 5-.50. 

Major C leaves an agent at the beginning of the west 
road to direct messengers, and rides out on that road to just 
west of the last house, where he has a good view of the 
valley before him. 

By 5-50 A. M., all his officers have reported, the 
tail of the support is nearing roadfork 589, and a glance at 
his march scale shows that the advance party must be on 
or beyond the ridge. Patrols have been seen on the ridge. 
Being satisfied that the advance is in peaceable possession 
of the ridge, Major C decides to cross Avithout waiting to 
hear from General C. 



THE OFFENSIVE l*^ 

Reconnaissance will now he made of the crest north of the valley. 
(,'aptain D, reconnoiter between the main road and Pleasant Grove 
S. H. Lieutenant B, from Pleasant Grove S. H. west one half mile. 
Proceed by the road that run.s west about 400 yards north of the 
stream. Lieutenant A. from the main road east one half mile. Pro- 
ceed by the road that runs east just south of the stream. Send road 
reports to me as soon as pos.sible. Reconnaissance reports by H-30 
A. M. 

J will be on the main road where it cros.ses the ridge. 



A March Outpost 

(t'Al'T.MV FlSKK) 

When the dismounted point, at 6-05 A. M.. reaches the 
unimproved road 300 yards northwest of 727. a fifteen-min- 
ute halt is ordered. No enemy has yet been reported. 

H<-«|tiir<>d : 

Dispositions of the support, incUiding tho.se of its ad- 
vance party. 

(Time for solution, one hovir) 



I ".-().') A. M. 



Situation !\o. 9 

Captain E directs the 2d Platoon to reinforce the point ; 
the reinforced point to continue the march to knoll 741. 
All dismounted patrols have been sent from the point, which 
by this time is considerably reduced in strength. The 
remainder of the company halts at the crest 200 yards south 
of 727. holds two squads on the alert at that point, sends 
one squad to knoll 787, 800 yards east, and another to the 
road junction 400 yards west. Patrol No. 12 is directed to 
remain on the crest lietween Pleasant Grove S. H. and the 
turnpike until the column resumes its march. Patrol No. 
9 remains on knoll 711 until the column is seen to be in 
march. Lieutenant Z holds the reinforced point on the 
alert north of 741 and sends four men forward to 693. The 
captain joins Lieutenant Z. A sergeant is sent with field 
glasses to the top of the highest building near 741. 

The colonel directs the last company to send one squad 
to hill 722. west of the tail of the regiment. Patrols (Nos. 



6-20 A. M. 



14 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

3 and 10) from the advance party are reported on hills 
744 and 743, east and west of the turnpike. One man in 
each company remains in the road, alert for signals. 

AN ADVANCE GUARD ACTION 

During the halt, Captain E hears firing to the north, 
apparently on the ridge 726 — 724. Shortly after the march 
is resumed, at 6-20 A. M., Lieutenant Y, who commands the 
mounted point, comes in rapidly. He reports that his pa- 
trol almost ran into a squad of hostile cavalry near the top 
of the hill north of the stream ahead ; and that he saw per- 
haps a small troop following the squad at three or four 
hundred yards. The firing, a few moments ago, came from 
the enemy, and was directed at his patrol as it came back 
across the stream. Lieutenant Y left the patrol in observa- 
tion on the nose between the streams south of 629, and came 
in to report. He has seen nothing of the Blue cavalry. 

At 6-30 A. M., Lieutenant Z has deployed the point at 
6-30 A. M. 693 and halted. The bulk of Company A should be coming 
up the hill south of 741. Captain E can see no indications 
of an enemy on the 726 — 724 ridge. 

Required : 

Captain E's orders and arrangements, 6-30 — 6-40 A. M. 

(Tipie for solution, one hour) 



Situation No. 10 

Captain E, at 6-30 A. M., directs Lieutenant Y: 

Rejoin your patrol, move up stream and locate the hostile left. 
Three cavalrymen (Patrol No. 2) are patrolling the road half mile 
east of this pike, and should, by this time, be coming in at the stream 
6-.30 A. M. junction near where your patrol now is. If you meet this patrol, 
take it with you. I am going to take the company straight down the 
pike. 

To Sergeant X (Troop E) : 

About a troop of the enemy's cavalry has driven back our mount- 
ed point from the ridge (726-724) yonder. Take your patrol to the 
left. Pick up Corporal K's men who shovdd be on that knoll (711) 



THE OFFENSIVE 15 

a half mile to the west. Go northwest via Georgetown and locate 
the hostile right. The company moves straight down this pike. 

To a cavalryman : 

Gallop back to Colonel D. Tell him a hostile troop of cavalry is 
a mile in front of us behind a branch of Piney Creek. I am taking 
the company straight down the pike against the enemy, and sending 
mounted patrols to find his flanks. 

Captain E meets the company between 741 and 693 and 
commands : 

As skirmishers, two paces; Guide Right, March. 

Arriving on line with the deployed point, Captain E 
causes the united line to continue the advance towards 629. 
He sends a combat patrol of 4 men down the nose running 
northwest from 693, and causes Patrol No. 6 to move down 
the nose north of 741, across the stream, and on to the high 
ground southeast of 629. 

(End of solution, situation No. 9.) 

Upon receiving the orderly's report, Colonel D gallops 
forward to 693. There he sees Company A, rather widely 
extended astride the turnpike and in the meadow 700 yards 
to the north, and watches it become engaged in a hot fire 
fight with hostile troops on the high ground north of the 
streams. The remainder of the support halts south of 741. 

At 7-00 A. M., this message, from Captain E, is de- 
livered : 

Have developed hostile fire from several points along total front 
500 yards, east and west of Baltimore pike. Enemy has at least 200 ^-OO a. m. 
rifles in action. I have had several casualties. Will hold ground 
south of northern stream. 

Reports have also been received, from the mounted 
patrols sent out by Captain E, that the enemy has prevented 
their crossing the stream north of knoll 726, one half mile , 

east of the pike, and between knoll 687 and Georgetown. 

Recjuired: 

Colonel D's (commanding officer, 1st Inf.) orders and 
actions. 

(Time for solution, one hour) 



"-OO A. M. 



-15 A. M. 



k; problems in troop leading 

Situation !\«i. 1 1 ; 

Colonel D's orders: 

To major, 1st Battalion, at 7-05 A. M. : 

A mounted patrol is near the bare knoll (687) three-quarters of 
a mile west of us. The 2d Battalion will deploy east of the turn- 
pike. 

Deploy you}- remaining- (3) companies -west of the turnpike and 
join Company A in its fire action. Don't stop to issue ammunition 
but leave your combat wagons, at my disposal, in the draw south of 
the low knoll (741) south of this point. 

To major, 2d Battalion, at 7-15 A. M., on knoll 741 : 

Company A is deployed astride this road, three-quarters of a 
mile north of us, and engaged in a hot fire fight with superior hostile 
forces. The remainder of the 1st Battalion is deploying on Com- 
pany A's left. Move down this draw to the east and, deploying with 
your left on Company A's right, take up the fire action. Connect 
mth the 2d Infantry which should be about a mile to our right. 
Some of our cavalrymen are in the neighborhood of the wooded knoll 
east of Company A. 

To commander, Machine Gun Company, at 7-20 A. M. : 

--•' A. M. Follow the 2d Battalion to the nose beyond the .stream north of 

this }>oint (741), and support the firing lines. 

To the Adjutant: 

Send the Band to the Suigeon. Have the engineers remain .south 
of this knoll. 

Colonel D reports his dispositions to the advance guard 
commander, who comes up with the support, and asks for 
the 3d Battalion (1st Inf.) for his reserve. 

(End of .solution. Situation No. 10.) 

The deployment of the 1st Infantry draws hostile ar- 
tillery fire from somewhere north of hill 726, and leads 
to the extension and strengthening of the hostile skirmish 
lines. By 8-00 A. M., it is evident to General C, at 741, 
that the two deployed battalions of the 1st Infantry have 
not been able to gain fire superiority. 

Reports have been received as follows : 
At 8-00 A. M., from the colonel. Lst Cavalry, dated 7-20 
A. M.: 

Was driven east of littlestoWN by hostile brigade of cavalry 
with some artillery. Am now in vicinity center s. h., .south of 
SELL.s STATION, confronted by at least one hostile regiment. Be- 
lieve bulk enemy's cavalry and guns are in front of your advance 
i;uard. Have .seen no ho.stile infantry. I will attack toward lekkvrk 
as soon as evident advance guard is engaged. 



THE OFFENSIVE 17 

From the colonel, 2d Infantry, dated 7-30 A. M. : 

My leading- battalion is warmly engaged south of the stream 
southeast of crossroads 733, with a superior enem>*. 

The division commander joins General C at 7-50 A.M. 

K«-4|uir<'d : 

Orders and action, commander, advance guard, since 
7-00 A. M. 

(Time for solution, two hours) 



Selution 



-1(1 A. M. 



Orders, commander, advance guard: 
At 7-10 A. M., to major. 1st Battalion, 1st Light Ar 
tillery, on knoll 741 : 

Turn your battalion out of column to the west and, moving under 
cover to the vicinity of Pleasant Grove S. H.. support the advance 
of our infantry. The 3d Battalion, 1st Infantry, will escort your 
command. 

To an aid : 

Direct the majoi- of the battalion at the head of the reserve to 
escort the artillery to the vicinity of Pleasant Grove S. H.; then to 
leave one company to pi-ovide security for the artillery and, advanc- 
ing to the draw west of this knoll (741), report the rest of his bat- 
talion to Colonel D. 

Advance Guard, 
Knoll 741, 
2 Sept., 15, 8-05 A. M. 
Col. E (Comdg. flank guard) : 

Our cavalry, now south of sells sta.. reports the enemy has a 
i)rigade of cavalry in our front. Blue cavalry will attack towards le- 
FEVRE as soon as the advance guard is engaged. The 1st Inf. attacks 
west of knoll 724. Art. supports from pleasant grove s. h. You s-tir. a. m. 
will attack at once fi-om knoll 724, inclusive, to the east. Establish 
Hag communication with knoll 741. 

C, 
Brig Gen. 

By mounted messenger. 
To an aid : 

Dii'ect the colonel of the 3d Infantry to advance to a covered posi- 
tion south of this knoll (741), and the engineer company to join the 
3d Infantry there. Have the ambulance company remain south of 
the low ridge a thousand yards south of this point (741) and west of 
the highway. 



18 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

General C transmits the message from the cavalry to 

the division commander and reports: 
« 
I am attacking with two regiments. The advance guard artillery 
is supporting from the vicinity of Pleasant Grove S. H. To expedite 
the hostile withdrawal, I would requeSt that the remainder of the 1st 
Artillery be ordered into action, east of the turnpike and behind the 
ridge south of us. 

(End of solution, Situation No. 11) 



Situation No. 11-A 

1st Bn. 1st L. A. 
(Caitain Scott) 

Major C receives the order of the advance guard com- 
mander at 7-10 A. M. on knoll 741. The reconnaissance of 
the ridge has been completed, and verbal reports with 
sketches have been made by the reconnaissance parties. 
Lieutenant A has been sent to hill 787, and Lieutenant B 
to hill 744, both to remain in observation until further 
notice. 

The battalion, less combat trains, is halted with its 
head about 400 yards south of 727. The battery com- 
manders have ridden forward and, from the crest, are ob- 
serving the ridge east and west of 726 occupied by the 
enemy, about 1,000 yards of which is visible through the 
gap between the trees. 

Required : 

Orders of Major C and the conduct of his battalion. 

Captain D, gallop back to the firing batteries and conduct them 
to position. Batteries A and B in observation east of hill 744. Sectors 
right and left from the pike. 

Battery C in readiness south of hill 767. 

Wire to Batteries A and B. 

Leave two scouts with me. 

My station will be here. 

Lieutenant D (Agent Combat Trains), conduct the combat trains 
by this I'oad (indicating on his map the road 589 west and north- 
west) to the roadfork near hill 704, where they will be at the disposal 
of battery commanders. 

The adjutant at once gallops off, taking with him the 
sergeant major and four scouts. As he passes the road cor- 
ner 300 yards north of 727, he says to the sergeant major : 



THE OFFENSIVE 19 

Line will follow that road to batteries. 

At the crest he meets the batteiy commanders and con- 
tinues south until the whole party is below the crest. 

Sergeant Major, take the reel forward at a trot. Leave the 
cart at the Major's position and lay wire by the route I indicated 
to Pleasant Grove S. H., where further orders will meet you. 

To the officers : 

Batteries A and B take position in observation about three 
quarters of a mile west of here. Battery C takes position in readi- 
ness 400 yards west of here. 

3d Battalion, 1st Infantry, marches as escort. 

I will mark the route. Mount and move out at once, at the walk. 

Battery commanders join me. 

Scouts open fences. 

Captain D rides rapidly across the field to the roadfork 
at the southeast end of hill 767. The infantry is approach- 
ing from the east and will be passing when the batteries 
arrive there. There seems no need to wait until the infan- 
try shall have gained distance, and travel through the fields 
is not heavy. He directs the three fences south of the road 
to be opened, and leaves a scout as m.arker and to direct 
the leading battery to keep in the fields towards the farm- 
house 400 yards west. The party then continues on past 
the farmhouse and across the road from the south to where 
the road 706 — Pleasant Grove S. H. crosses the stream 
line. 

Captain D directs: 

Positions of Batteries A and B are there (pointing to the north 
slopes of the ravine) . A on the left, B on the right, leaving room on 
the right for C. Limbers down this road (pointing south) to vicinity 
of first roadfork. 

BC stations will be on that hill (pointing to 744). We will go 
there by the road. 

Corporal X, have the batteries halt here in double section column 
until sent for by their battery commanders. 

Corporal Y, ride to the schoolhouse, meet the reel and conduct 
it by this road to the first corner south, then west, then up that hill 
(pointing to 744). 

The party then gallops to 706, west about 450 yards, 
through a gap in the fence, and north up the slope of hill 
744, about 200 yards, where they dismount. The four offi- 
cers go forward on foot, until they can see the crest at 726 
and part of its forward slopes. Lieutenant B reports light 



2(» PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

skirmish lines along the crest west of the pike, and along 
the fence on the forward slope east of the pike. 

Captain D directs : 

Our infantry has been stopped by rifle fire from that crest. They 
report a line 500 yards long, astride the pike. Our mounted patrol.s 
have been stopped about a mile northwest of here and also to the east 
of the pike. Battery A, observe from the pike to the west; Battery 
B, to the east of the pike. Report targets but wait the battalion 
commander's order to open fire. 

The battalion commander is at that group of houses (741), and 
wire is being laid to this point. 

Note: Battalion adjutant had about 2 miles to ride and about 
'.V walking. Add to this, 5 minutes for orders and 5 for delay at 
fence or 23'. 

Reel cart had 2 1-3 miles to go at a trot. 17.5' 

Orders received at 7-13. 3.0 

Unlimbering, starting, etc. 3.0 



23.5' 



Firing batteries had one mile to go at a walk, through culii- 
\ ated ground, 20. ' 

Unlimbering in position, etc. 3. 



23. 

Occupation of position completed at 7-33.5. or say 7-35. 

Fin- Direction by Major (! 

Major C: 

All batteries. Direction point, the house on the crest at 72ti. 

The 1st Battalion, 1st Infantiy, is deployed on the left of the pike, 
the 2d Battalion on the right of it. Both have begun fire action from 
(he line of the creek. 

Battery A, adjust on the crest in line with direction point. 
Battery B, on the cre.st 150 mils right. (724). 

O. K. 

Battery A, sweep the crest from 30 right to 90 left. Battery B. 
from 150 right to 30 right. 

Sufficient for both. 

Battery B, fence and road corner 150 right. Range 2,800. 
Sweep 50 mils right and left of that. 

O. K. 

Both batteries continue fire. Battery A, sweep crest 100 to 200 
mils left. 

Battery B. sweep edge of woods 250 to 170 right. 

Battery C, go into position on right of Battery B. 

Telephone man : 

Captain A reports that sound of hostile guns is directly over 
direction point, sir. 



THE OFP^ENSIVE 21 

Message from Lieutenant A : 

Sound of artillery lire over hill 72(). 

From Lieutenant C, with flank guard : 

Sound of hostile guns close to or west of the road running north- 
west from 733. Saw artillery reconnoitering party at 733, ten min- 
utes ago. and believe it is now at a barn in south edge of woods 'JFio 
mils left of 733. 

Major C decided that the hostile artillery was on the 

Ijiire grass knoll about half a mile northwest of 733, iind 

that its observation, or part of it, was at the barn described 

by Lieutenant C. The barn was just visible over the trees 

on the northwest slope of 726. 

Battery B, a barn 225 mils right. Range 3,300. Attack it with 
volleys H. E. shrapnel at 32, 33, and 3,400 yards. 
O. K. 

All batteries: 

Prepare to attack hostile artillery in position 20 left to 40 
right. Parallel fire. Site, 1 less, 2 rounds H. E. shrapnel at 3,900. 
-1,000, and 4,100. Report when ready. 

Fire. Repeat the fire. 

Battery C, continue the fire on the whole area. Batterie.> A aiui 
B. resume fire on hostile infantry in your sectors. 



Lieutenants A and B, go forward and reconnoiter the flanks of 
the hostile line. 



Situation No. 12 

(Captain' Fiski:! 

By 8-30 A. M., the entire 1st Artillery is firing. The 
enemy's rifle fire is decreasing, and his artillery has ceased 
firing. The men of the three reserve companies of the 1st 
Infantry have been loaded with ammunition and sent into 
the line of the 1st Battalion. 

The division commander has ordered the 2d Brigade, 
as it crosses Silver Run, to mass west of the turnpike, and 
the Artillery Brigade (less one regiment) east of the turn- 
pike. 

At 8-35 A. M., General C, from knoll 741, can see the 
lines of the 1st Infantry ascending the slopes of hill 72(5. 
The soimd of infantry firing has practically ceased. 



.>-:;ii A. M. 



22 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Required : 

Orders and actions of General C, commander, advance 
guard, 8-35—8-40 A. M. 

(Time for solution, one hour) 



Situation No. 13 

Orders, General C: 

At 8-35 A. M., to an aid: 

Tell Major C the enemy is withdrawing, and to rush his batteries 
by the Baltimore Turnpike to the heights (726 — 724) north of the 
Piney Creek Branch. 

To the colonel, 3d Infantry : 

The enemy is withdrawing. Follow the 1st Infantry at once to- 
wards the hill (726) yonder. Leave the pike clear for the artillery. 
Take the engineers with you. 

The general then gallops forward to the vicinity of 
crossroads 689. 

(End of solution, situation No. 12) 

From 689, General C watches small detachments of 
hostile cavalry withdraw rapidly, on the roads and across 
country, in the direction of Littlestown. Reports are re- 
ceived almost immediately from the flank guard that knoll 
766 has been taken ; and that from its front hostile cavalry 
A. M. is retiring towards Lefevre. A few Red prisoners confirm 
the general's impression that the advance of the division 
has been opposed by three regiments of cavalry and two 
or three horse batteries. At 9-00 A. M., the 1st Infantry is 
assembling by companies, but in considerable disorder, on 
both sides of the turnpike, near 689. Small bodies of the 
2d Infantry, moving north, are to be seen a mile to the east. 
The artillery battalion is partially unlimbered east of knoll 
726 but, evidently for lack of a suitable target, is not firing. 
The 3d Infantry, in line of columns, is coming over the crest 
of ridge 726. 

Recfuired : 

Orders, General C, 9-00—9-20 A. M. 
(Time for solution, one hour) 



THE OFFENSIVE 23 

Situation No. 14 

General C's orders, at 9-00 A. M., to an aid : 

Direct the 2d Infantry to continue the advance towards the low ^'^^ ^- ^• 
knolls west of Lefevre. The remainder of the advance guard marches 
on I^ittlestown. 

At 9-10 A. M., to the colonel, 3d Infantry : c^^^ ^ ^^ 

The enemy has withdrawn towards Littlestown and Lefevre. 
Your regiment with the engineers will take the advance towards 
Littlestown as the support of the advance guard. The 2d Infantry 
moves on Lefevre. 

At 9-15 A. M., to the colonel, 1st Infantry: 

The 3d Infantry takes the advance on Littlesto\vn ; the 2d In- 9.15 a. m. 
fantry on Lefevre. You will follow the 3d Infantry at 800 yards. 
Leave space between your leading battalions for the battalion of 
artillery. Leave one company to assist the ambulance company in 
policing the battlefield. 

At 9-17 A. M., to the major of artillery: 

The 3d Infantry takes the advance on Littlestown. As soon 9-17 A. M. 
as it has some men on the ridge between Piney Creek and Littlestown, 
you will limber up and take place in column behind the leading bat- 
talion of the 1st Infantry. 

Advance Guard, 
Crossroads 689, 
2 Sept., 15, 9-20 A.M. 
C. O., 1st Amb. Co.: 

Take up police of battlefield at once. One co., 1st Inf., will as- 
sist you. 

By command. Brig. Gen. C : i)-20 a.m. 

K, 
Adj. 



ADVANCE GUARD RECONNAISSANCE OF 
AN ENEMY IN POSITION 

By 10-10 A. M., the leading element of the 3d Infantry 
has reached the nose 621, northwest of Littlestown. Gen- 
eral C has ridden rapidly to a high building near the north- i(>-i^ a. m. 
east exit of Littlestown, and is examining the ground 
through his glasses. The 2d Infantry can be seen, half a 
mile south of Lefevre, closing up on its advance. The 3d 
Infantr>% except its leading company, has not gone beyond 
the buildings in Littlestown. The cavalrymen with the 2d 
and 3d Infantry have been fired upon and driven back from 
knoll 637, 1 mile north of the eastern exit of Littlestown ; 



24 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

from Pleasant Hill S. H. ; and from the orchard one mile 
west of Pleasant Hill S.H. between roadforks 564 and 544 ; 
and have so reported. The general cannot make out any 
indications of the enemy's presence in those directions. The 
hostile cavalry appears to have retired to the northeast. 
General C has been able to get nothing from the few re- 
maining inhabitants in Littlestown to indicate, where the 
enemy can be found in strength. 

Re«iuired : 

General C's orders, 10-20—10-30 A. M. 

(Time for solution, one and one-half hours) 



10-20 A. M. 



io-->: 



Situation No. 15 

General C's orders : At 10-20 A. M., to the colonel, :>d 
Infantry, who has reported to the general: 

I want you to push reconnaissance from Pleasant Hill S. H. west 
to Alloway Ci'eek to determine where the enemy is to be found in 
strength. The 2d Infantry will similarly reconnoiter to your right. 
Its mounted men have been driven back from that low knoll to the 
northeast (637). I will send some artillery west of LittlCvStown to 
support your detachments. 

At 10-25 A. M., to an aid: 

Direct the 2d Infantry to push reconnaissance towards the north- 
west from Lefevre to deteimine where the enemy is to be found in 
strength. The 3d Infantry is reconnoitering from Pleasant Hill 
School to Alloway Creek. Artillery will be sent east of Littlestown 
to suppoi*t the detachments of the 2d Infantry. 

At 10-27 A. M., to the major of artillery, who has heard 
the instructions for the 2d and od Regiments : 

Select positions and place batteries in observation under cover. 
10-2 1 A. .\]. east and west of Littlestown, to support the reconnaissance of the 2d 
and 3d Regiments. 

At 10-28 A. M.. to an aid: 

Dii-ect the 1st Infantry and en^ineer.^ to mass south ot" Litties- 
10-2S A. M. town and east of the pike. 

Kr«|uir«'fl : 

Orders of the colonel, 3d Infantry, 10-30—10-45 A. M. 

(Time foi- f^olution. one and one-half hours) 



THE OFFENSIVE 25 

Situation !So. 16 

Orders of the colonel, od Infantry : 
In the streets of Littlestown. at W-'M) A. M.. to the 
major, 2d Battalion : 

Our raount<'d men have been stopped at Pleasant Hill S. H. and 
(<n the next road, about a mile west of it. We are oi-dered to locate 
the enemy's main forces. Take your battalion a half mile west of 
this town, on the railroad track; then north to Ash Grove S. H. From 
that point, advance towards roadfork 564, and drive in any hostile 
covering detachments encountei-ed. Leave two of your companies in 
the vicinity of Ash Grove S. H., at my disposal. Artillery will be 
ready to support from west of Littlestown. I am g'oing- to the low 
ridge northwest of the Toll Gate, whence I will send the 1st Battalion 
towards Pleasant Hill S. H. 

To the major of the 3d Battalion, who has heard the 
orders for the 2d Battalion : 

Follow the 'Id Battalion to the drawhead UOO yards south of 
Ash Grove S. H.. and await my orders there. Patrol towards Gei- 
mantown. Take the machine guns with you, and look for supporting 
positions near Ash Grove S. H. Band will follow you. 

To the major, 1st Battalion, at 10-45 A. M., on knoll 

021 : 

The Regiment has been directed to reconnoitci- on the front 
Ailoway Creek — Pleasant Hill S. H., to locate the enemy's main 
forces. The 2d Infantry similarly reconnoiters to our right. The 2d 
Battalion is moving via Ash Grove S. H. to the north on the road 
about a mile west of this point. You will advance with two com- 
panies directly against Pleasant Hill S. H. Connect with Major H 
on your left anil with the 2d Infantry on our right. Leave your re- 
maining companies, at my disposal, west of the Toll Gate. There \vill 
be artillery west of Littlestown to support us if necessary. Do not 
advance beyond this point till I direct. I will remain here. 

(End of solution, situation No. 15) 

One platoon of the leading company is deploying on 
the nose of knoll 621, with patrols towards Ash Grove vS. H. 
and 558 W. 

Hrquired: 

Orders of the major, l.st Battalion. 

(Time for solution, one houi) ' 



](i-:!(i A.M. 



111-4: 



Situation -No, 17 

Orders of the major. 1st Battalion, at ll-Kl A. M. 



26 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

near northern building in Littlestown : 

Our mounted men have been driven back from Pleasant Hill S. H. 
This Battalion has been directed to determine what hostile force is at 
11-10 A. M. the schoolhouse, and where the enemy's main lines ai*e. The 2d Bat- 
talion is moving a mile west of us on a similar mission and the 2d 
Infantry nearly a mile east of us. Artillery will support us if neces- 
sary. 

Company B will advance west of the Littlestown — Toll Gate — 
Pleasant Hill S. H. road; Company A will advance east of that road. 
Each company will deploy one platoon at wide intervals, and start the 
advance behind its skirmishers, in platoon columns. Company B will 
send one platoon up the stz'eam line a half mile west of Pleasant Hill 
S. H. It will connect with the 2d Battalion. Company A will send 
a platoon up the draw east of Pleasant Hill S. H. It will connect 
with the 2d Infantry. 

Companies C and D will follow the advance to cover near the 
Toll Gate, where they will remain subject to the colonel's orders. 

Issue ammunition. Leave packs here under g:uard (under cover 
of last buildings in Littlestown). 

Battalion headquarters behind Company A. 

Move up to Toll Gate and await my orders to advance therefrom. 



Situation No. 17-A 
Ist Battalion 1st L. A. 

(Caitain Scott) 

Upon receipt of the advance guard commander's order 
for reconnaissance, Major C proceeds to his battalion, which 
is in line in the field just southwest of roadfork 575; the 
combat trains are in the road south of Mt. Pleasant S. H. 

Battery commanders and their details are near Major 
C, waiting for orders. The battery reconnaissance officers 
are still detached with the scouts, but the latter have been 
replaced by substitutes. 

Major C, at 10-35 A. M., issues orders to his battery 
commanders as follows : 

Our scouting parties have been driven back by rifle fire fi'om 
knoll 637, Pleasant Hill Schoolhouse, and the orchard about a mile 
north of Ash Grove Schoolhouse. 
10-35 A. M. Reconnaissance in force is ordered, to determine where the 

enemy is in strength. 

The 2d Infantry reconnoiters to the northwest from Lefevre. 

The 3d Infantry reconnoiters the front. Pleasant Hill S. H. to 
Alio way Creek. 

This Battalion supports these reconnaissances. 

The Battalion (less Battery C), in observation about 600 yards 
northeast of the Pumping Station. Sector of observation, the Elec- 
tric Railway west to Pleasant Hill S. H. Battery A to observe the 



THE OFFENSIVE 27 

east half. Battery B the west half. Fire will be by my order. Wire 
communication , 

Limbers and combat trains about 400 yards south of the Pump- 
ing Station. 

Battery C will support the 3d Infantry from position to the 
west of Littlestown. Communication by courier. Battery C combat 
train will follow it. 

My station will be that lone house south of the east end of the 
railway yards. 

Corporal A (agent), report to the brigade adjutant. 

Sergeant Major, establish wire communication with Captains 
A and B as soon as their stations are selected. 

Captain D, take 3 scouts and ride to the 2d Infantry. Report 
to the C. O. Tell him what we are doing, and that I will be glad to 
be advised of his dispositions and subsequent movements. Look care- 
fully into the question of information and communications. If in 
your opinion. Lieutenant C can handle the matter, well and good. Get 
him started and give him more men if necessary; then return. If 
there is any doubt as to his being equal to the task, take it over your- 
self and send him to report to me. 

Battery C, let L. A. 

Captain C at once writes a message and sends it to his 
executive officer by his combat train agent : 

March battery forward to 609 roadfork (3-inch map), then west 
and halt in road with head at 607 roadfork. Wait orders there. 
Leave a marker at 609. 

C, 
Capt. 

To the Agent : 

After delivering this message to Lieutenant E, tell him you are 
to go on to the combat train and conduct it to the battery as soon as 
it can get through. Ride at a trot. 

Captain C then goes to the colonel of the 3d Infantry 
and reports that his battery is to support the advance of 
that regiment. He is informed of the dispositions made by 
the colonel. Captain C informs the colonel that he has no 
officer to send with him, but will send one later, meantime 
a corporal will act as agent. 

Corporal N, report to Colonel K as agent. I am going to the 
reservoir on that hill south of the tracks at the west edge of the town, 
and will let you know of any change in my position. 

Captain C now mounts and proceeds with his party to 
the reservoir (W. W. on the map). Little can be seen in the 
field of operations of the 3d Inf., because of the buildings on 
hill 642, the spur 621, scattered groves, and the trees along 
the small streams. 



Ml-hh A. M. 



28 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Musician A, that is the battery coming (pointing toward 609, 
ii»-4h A. M. which the battery has partly passed on the road to 607). Meet it 
and tell Lieutenant E to continue the march by that road over that 
hill (pointing to hill 623) to the railroad crossing, and to halt there. 

Corporal M, remain here to direct anyone looking for me. I 
am going over to that cemetery (pointing to the northw^est). 

The party then rides across country, by the south of 
the hill on which the cemetery stands, to the north end of the 
orchard. Here all dismount, and Captain C goes forward to 
the north end of the cemetery. Here a good view is had, 
between spurs 621 and 607, of the area of operations of the 
3d Inf., except of the extreme western portion. A knoll 
about 700 yards west (642) looks as though it might remedy 
this deficiency. The likelihood of finding a better observa- 
tion station is rather remote, he judges. Just west of the 
cemetery and 40 feet below it, there is an open field which 
will be a good position for the battery provided it is not ex- 
posed to hostile observation from west of the Alloway. 

Corporal K (signalman), you and Musician T open fences to 
that hill (pointing to 642). I am going over there. 

Musician A (who has just reported), have the battery officers 
report to me at the west corner of the cemetery. I am going- to that 
hill (pointing to 642), and will be back in a few minutes. 

Captain C returns to the party, mounts, and rides to 
642. 

As he crosses the field west of the cemetery, he notes 
that it is hidden from view from all hostile terrain, and that 
the house at the west fork, about 800 yards to the north- 
west, will do for an aiming point. One in rear would be 
preferable, but none is available. At hill 642 he finds that 
the view is as good as he hoped for ; and he decides to estab- 
lish his own station in the cemetery, and an auxiliary ob- 
servation station here. 

He points out the Alloway Creek and its eastern branch, 
through 544 and the knoll on which roadfork 564 is visible, 
and orders : 

The enemy is north of that branch and has driven back our 
cavalry that tried to cross it. 

Our 3d Infantry is going to advance from the wooded spur due 
north of us. 

The Battery will support the advance from position in that field 
just this side of the cemetery. 



THE OFFENSIVE 29 

Corporal K (signalman), you and Musician T remain here and 
keep the hostile position under observation. 
My station will be in the cemetery. 

At 11-00 A. M., Captain C is back at the cemetery where ii-ou a. m. 
his officers, Lieutenants E and G, are waiting. Lieutenant 
C is with the 2d Infantry, Lieutenant H is with the C. Tn. 

Captain C takes them to the north end of the cemetery, 
with map and terrain orients them, and orders: 

Our scouting parties have been driven back from the general 
line running east and w^est through Pleasant Hill S. H. 

A reconnaissance in force is about to begin to locate the hostile 
main position. 

The 2d Infantry advances northwest from Lefevre, supported 
by Batteries A and B. 

The 3d Infantry operates between Pleasant Hill School and the 
AUoway. The 1st Battalion from the vicinity of the Tollgate advances 
against Pleasant Hill S. H. The 2d Battalion moves north fi-om 
the vicinity of Ash Grove S. H. Both are at or near their starting 
points now, and that is the 3d Battalion passing to the west of us. 
It is in resei've, and its position is about half a mile noi'th of that 
hill (642). 

This Battery supports the 3d Infantry. 

Battery position, in that field, facing due north; right about 50 
yards west of the west corner of the cemetery. Aiming point, that 
house at the roadfork. 

Limbers and combat train at the railroad crossing. 

My station will be here. Megaphone. 

Lieutenant E, put the battery in position, marching by roadfork 
616. You will be seen crossing the crest between the railroad cross- 
ing and that point, so go over it quickly, in line. Move fast. 

Lieutenant G, establish a patrol of one caisson corporal and three 
spare cannoneers to the west of the battery, and another one to the 
south, to guard our flank and rear. Then take two caisson corporals 
and Private O (signalman), go north and find the colonel of the 3d 
Infantry. He is likely to be somewhere between Tollgate and Ash 
Grove S. H. Tell him of my position and that the battery will be 
ready to fire by 11-10. Remain with him as information officer. Re- 
lieve Corporal N who is with him, and send him by Littlestovna to 
tell the battalion commander where we are; then he is to rejoin me, 
picking up Corporal M on the way. 

Private O will leave his telephone here. 

Captain C prepares firing data for Pleasant Hill S. H., 
roadfork 598, the house 700 yards west, the streamline- 
roadcrossing 300 yards further west, and the farm buildings 
300 yards west of Grawmers. 



THE ATTACK 



1-00 P, M. 



' Deployment of the Division 

(Captain Fiske) 

At 1-00 P. M., the division commander is with the com- 
mander of the advance guard on a tall building in the east- 
ern part of Littlestown. The reconnoitering regiments 
have driven in several small, hostile covering detachments, 
and laid bare an entrenched position extending from knoll 
647, inclusive, through knoll 627, and along the nose ter- 
minating southeast of the stream junction 540 on Alio way 
Creek. The timber northwest of Pleasant Hill S. H., and 
east of road junction 564, has been largely cleared. The 1st 
Cavalry, north of Sells Station, is observing the hostile 
cavalry brigade, which is reported massed near knoll 607, 
a mile and a half west of Brushtown. 

At 12-00 o'clock, the 2d and 3d Divisions were form- 
ing to attack hostile positions west of Alloway Creek. 

Required : 

Orders of the division commander since 10-00 A. M.. 
including those to meet the present situation. 

(Time for solution, one and one-half hours) 



Situation No. 18 

Orders of the division commander. 

At 10-00 A. M., to the artillery brigadier : 

I<MIO A, M. Turn the artillery of the main body into park west of road 

junction 629 and north of the branch of Piney Creek. Let the men 
eat. 

To an aid: 

Turn the 2d Brigade east across country, south of the stream 
which is south of road junction 629. Have it assemble and get the 
noon meal in the flats a half mile east of crossroads 733. 

Have the 3d Brigade and following auxiliaries assemble, and 
also get their noon meal, south of the artillery brigade. 

Send brigade commanders to report to me at this point. 

1st Div., 

LITTLESTOWN, 

2 Sept., 15, 1-00 P. M. 
Field Orders, 
No. 4. 

Gettysburg 3-inch. 

1. Our advance guard has driven hostile detachments from knoll 
30 



THE OFFENSIVE 



31 



637, from pleasant hill S. H., and from the vicinity of roadfork 564, 
near the alloway. Red trenches have been located on the southern 
slopes of knolls 647 and 627, and of the long nose between the graw- 
MER farm and stream junction 540, on alloway creek. 

The hostile brigade of cavalry is reported massed near G. martz. 
a mile and a half west of brushtown. 

At noon, our 2d and 3d Divisions were preparing to attack west 

of ALLOWAY CREEK. 

2. This Division will attack east of alloway CREEK, enveloping 
the hostile left. March conditions cease. 

3. (a) 1st Brig. F. A, will place one gun bn, west of littlestown 

to support the 1st Brig., two gun bns. east of littlestown to sup- ^-<^'^' P- m. 
port the 2d Brig., and the howitzers south of littlestown in ob- 
servation. 

(b) 1st Brig, will deploy to attack the enemy's position from 
knoll 627, mclusive, to the alloway. The Brigade will await further 
orders to advance beyond its present first line. 

, J^] ^^ ^^^S; advancing east of knolls 652 and 637, will attack 
knoll 647 and envelop the enemy's left. 

(d) 3d Brig., in reserve, will move into the meadows east of 
crossroads 733. 

(e) 1st Cav., from sells sta., will cover our right and support 
the envelopmg attack. 

(f) 1st Bn. Engrs., will prepare littlestown for defense, 

(g) 1st Bn. Sig. will connect the brigades with this house. 
4. Station for slightly wounded: knoll 726, 2,000 yds. south- 
east of littlestown on BALTIMORE TURNPIKE. 

1st Amb. Co. to knoll 726; remaining ambulance companies and 
one held hospital will assemble south of knoll 766, one mile north- 
east of knoll 726. 

Ammunition distributing stations: roadfork 629, 2,500 yards 
southeast of littlestown on Baltimore turnpike, and crossroads 733 
1,500 yards northeast of roadfork 629. 

5. Div. Hq. at K house, near eastern exit littlestown. 

A, 
Maj. Gen. 

Copies to assembled brigade, engineer, and signal com- 
manders, and chief surgeon. To 1st Cav. by captain Tr. I, 
who, with his own troop and f Tr. E, is directed to join 
regiment. 

1st Div., 

LITTLESTOWN, 

T^ ^ , ^ 2 Sept., 15, 10-00 A. M. 

Lit. Col. K: 

Halt trains at and south of union mills. 10-00 a. m. 

By command, Maj. Gen. A: 

X, 

C. of S. 

By motorcycle messenger. 

1st Div., 

LITTLESTOWN, 

Lt, Col K: ' «*>*•' ''' '-»" P- "■ 

Enemy in position 2 miles north of littlestown. Div. attacks. i-OO p m 
Release 1st F. Hosp. Co. and send to knoll 766, IJ miles south of ' ' 

lefevre. 



32 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Release Am. Tn. and order to crossroads 727, li miles N. W. 
SILVER RUN villagre. 

By command, Maj. Gen. A: 
X, 
C. of S. 
By motorcycle messenger. 



Situation No. 18-A 

The .Artillery Brigade 

(Captain Scott) 

At 10-00 A.M., General E sent orders to the brigade to 
park west of roadfork 629 and north of the stream, combat 
trains to join their batteries, the command to eat. At 11-00 
A. M., he ordered the colonel of the 1st L. A to reconnoiter 
the terrain between the Baltimore Pike and the west branch 
of the Little Conewago, the colonel of the 2d L. A., the 
country west of the Baltimore Pike. Both reported to him 
in Littlestown between noon and one o'clock. 

General E received the division order for the attack at 
1-00 P. M. 



Required : 

Orders of General E. 

1st Brig. F. A., 

LITTLESTOWN, 

2 Sept., 15, 1-05 P. M. 
Lt. Col. X: 

Brig, marches at once. 

1st L. A. to the PUMPING STATION where the regimental comman- 
der's orders will meet it. 
p, M. 2d L. A. via Georgetown to the quarry I mile south of littles- 

town, where the regimental commander's orders will meet it. 

N. B. Exposure to observation from the terrain north of tht 
railroad will be avoided. 

E, 
Brig. Gen. 

Read to colonels and staffs. Routes marked on maps. 
By aid, gallop. 

1st Brig. F. A., 
littlestown, 
2 Sept., 15. 1-20 P. M. 

Field Orders, 

No. 2. 
Gettysburg, 3 inch. 

1. The enemy has been driven back on an intrenched position 
extending from hill 647, inclusive, across hill 627, and west to allo- 
WAY creek near the 540 fork. Its location and extent west of allo- 



THE OFFENSIVE 33 

WAY CREEK are not yet known. His cavalry, a brigade with two or 
three horse batteries, is to his left rear. 

Our army attacks today. 

This division attacks from hill 647 to alloway creek. 

The 1st Brig, attacks from hill 627, inclusive, to alloway creek. 

The 2d Brig, attacks hill 647, from the direction of lefevre, en- 
veloping the enemy's left. 

The 3d Brig, is in reserve. Its first position is in the flats 
about one half mile east of crossroads 733. 

The cavalry covers our right fi'om the vicinity of sells station. 

2. This Brigade occupies position at once. 

3. (a) The 1st L. A. (less Btry. C), will support the attack of 
the 2d Brig., 1st Bn. from its present position, 2d Bn. from position 
about 1,000 yards northeast of the 1st Bn. 

(b) The 2d L. A. (less 2d Bn.) will support the attack of the 1st 
Brig, from position about 1,200 yards south of ash grove s. h. Btry. 
C, 1st L. A., attached to the 2d L. A. 

(c) 2d Bn., 2d L, A., in observation south of the waterworks 
(WW). Sector, hill 647, inclusive, to alloway creek. Target, the 
hostile artillery. 

4. Distributing stations: crossroad 733 and roadfork 629. 
Station for slightly wounded: knoll 726, 2,000 yards southeast of 

LITTLESTOWN. 

5. Brig. Hq. near eastern exit of town. Regt. comdrs. and 
comdr. 2d. Bn., 2d L. A., connect by wire. 

E, 
^ . Brig. Gen. 

Copies to regimental and battalion commanders. 



(CAI'TArN FiSKK) 

Required : 

Orders of the commander of the 2d Brigade in com- 
pliance with the attack order of the division. 

(Time for solution, one hour) 



Second Brigade — Situation No. 19 

Orders, commander, 2d Brigade : 

At 1-30 P. M., verbally, to his colonels and staff on hill 
766, one and one half miles south of Lefevre : 

Our advance guard has located hostile entrenchments from the 
low knoll (647) in our front, westward to Alloway Creek. The hos- 
tile cavalry is reported massed a mile and a half west of Brushtown. 
The entire army is attacking, this division from Alloway Creek to the 
east. The 1st Brigade attacks from the wooded knoll (627), in- 
clusive, to the west. Our artillery supports from positions east and i.yo p m 
west of Littlestown. The 1st Cavalry covers our right from the 
vicinity of Sells Station. 

This Brigade attacks the low knoll (647), and envelops the 
enemy's left. 

The 4th Infantry, advancing on the line Lefevre — Knoll 647, 
will attack that knoll. 



34 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

The 5th and 6th Regiments, Colonel K, commanding, will take 
station in reserve, a half mile east of Christ S. H. 

Empty ammunition wagons to crossroads 733. 

Station for slightly wounded: knoll 726, 2,000 yards southeast 
of Littlestown. 

Messages to the reserve. 

Required : 

Actions and orders, colonel, 4th Infantry. 

(Time for solution, forty-five minutes.) 



Situation No. 20 

The colonel, 4th Infantry, issues orders : 
At 1-40 P. M., to the adjutant : 

Have the senior captain conduct the Regiment to the northeast, 
under cover, to a point about 500 yards southwest of 594 W. Send 
the majors and Captain K (M. G. Co.) to meet me a thousand yards 
down this road to the northeast. 

At 1-55 p. M., at the clump of timber one half mile 
south of Lefevre, to his field officers, adjutant, and Cap- 
tain K : 

The enemy has occupied a position extending westward from 
the low knoll (647) in our front. The hostile cavalry is massed be- 
hind the enemy's left, a mile and a half west of Brushtown. The 
army is attacking. The 1st Brigade, on our left, attacks from the 
wooded knoll (627) to Alloway Creek. Our cavalry, at Sells Sta- 
tion, is covering the right flank. Our 5th and 6th Regiments follow 
us in reserve. 

This Regiment attacks knoll 647. 

The 2d Battalion will attack the western half of knoll 647, its 
P. M. right taking the direction, road junction (612) 250 yards west of 
Lefevre-farmhouse near top of knoll 647. 

The 3d Battalion, in conjunction with the 2d Battalion, vdll at> 
tack the eastern half of knoll 647. 

The 1st Battalion and machine guns, in reserve, will follow the 
3d Battalion at 600 yards. 

The 1st Battalion will send a strong patrol via Wentz and 
Valley Grove S. H., to secure our right flank. 

Slightly wounded to knoll 726, 2,000 yards southeast of Littles- 
town. Band to surgeon. 

Empty ammunition wagons to crossroads 733, refill, and come 
up to Lefevre. Leave packs where you issue ammunition. 

Messages to the reserve. 

Retiuircd : 

Orders of the major, 3d Battalion, for the attack. 

(Time for solution, forty-five minutes.) 



THE OFFENSIVE 35 

Solution, Situation No. 20 

The major issues ammunition 600 yards southwest of 
594W, drops packs, conducts his battalion under cover of the 
timber to the draw west of Lefevre, assembles his captains 
on the eastern nose of knoll 646, and, at 2-20 P. M., orders : 

The enemy's left is on the low knoll 3,000 yards in our front. 
His cavalry is reported massed three miles north of us. Our army is ., «.. 
attacking— our regiment the low knoll (647), the 2d Battalion the ^* ^• 

western half of that knoll, the 1st Battalion in reserve. The 1st 
Battalion sends a patrol towards Valley Grove S. H. to cover our 
right. 

This Battalion attacks the eastern side of the knoll (647). 

Companies I and K will form the firing line, and will each de- 
ploy along this nose on a front of 125 yards, leaving fifty yards, at 
first, between companies. 

Company I, on the left, will direct its center on the highest 
point of the knoll. 

Companies L and M, in support. Company M on the right, will 
follow the firing line at 500 yards. 

Battalion headquarters midway between the firing line and the 
supports. 

Companies I and K, move out as soon as you are ready. 



(Company I, 4th Infantry 

In compliance with the major's order, the captain of 
Company I immediately assembled his platoon leaders, and, 
at 2-25 P. M., directed : 

The enemy is in position to the northwest, with his left on the 
low knoll (647) in our front. 

Our whole army is attacking. Our regiment attacks the low- 
knoll (647). The 2d Battalion is on our left; Company K on our 
right. 

This Company will advance to attack, the center skirmisher 
marching on the highest point of the low knoll (647). 

We will start in thin lines. ^-2f> P- m. 

Lieutenant K (2d Lt.) and the scouts will lead. I will follow 
with the second line. Lieutenant L (1st Lt.,) will send forward the 
successive lines, at 150 yards, and will come up himself with the last. 

The captain deployed the company under cover of 
knoll 646, waited a few moments for the platoon com- 
manders to explain the situation to the men and point out 
knoll 647, then signalled to the first line to start. The ad- 
vance in thin lines continued without interruption until the 
second line reached the small fold south of the Todt farm- 
house. The scouts went on about 440 yards beyond this 
house. In the fold near Todt's. a strong skirmish line was 



36 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

built up by the accession of the succeeding lines. Up to this 
point, but few casualties had occurred, although the com- 
pany had been subjected to one rather heavy burst of shrap- 
nel. The cornfield west of Todt's was passed in platoon col- 
umns, the line of skirmishers being reformed just within 
the northern edge of the corn. From this position, that of 
the scouts was reached by platoon rushes from the left, and 
without firing. This last advance drew hostile fire from 
both artillery and small arms. 

The captain drew in his platoon leaders to within 
earshot, then ordered: 

Reference, red house, at 11-00 o'clock; on knoll to our front. 
Catch the company trench, the right of which is at three fingers, at 
at 5-00 o'clock therefrom. That trench, which seems to be about 
six fingers in length, is the company's objective. Each platoon of 
the right half of the company will fire on the entire eastern half of 
the hostile trench; each platoon of the left half of the company will 
fire on the entire western half of the hostile trench. Give me the 
range. 

The 1st sergeant assisted by the musicians took the 

range with the Weldon to a fence post near the crest of knoll 

647. The company range finders estimated it. The captain 

corrected his own estimate by the mean of the estimates 

of his range finders and by that found with the Weldon ; 

then signalled : 

Range 850. 

Each platoon leader pointed out the platoon objective 
to his squad leaders; each of these indicated the squad's 
part of the target to his men. Sight leaves, instead of 
fingers, were used by the enlisted men in designating the 
target. Each corporal signalled ready to his platoon lead- 
er ; each platoon leader signalled ready to the captain ; and 
the captain signalled ready to the major. Both first line 
companies opened fire together, at 3-10 P. M., at the major's 
signal, 

Commence firing. 



First Brigade 

Turning now to the 1st Brigade, we find that General 
C, after the receipt of the attack order of the division, 
first sent the following message : 



1-15 P. ^l. 



THE OFFENSIVE 37 

1st Brig., 

LITTLESTOWN, 

2 Sept., 15, 1-15 P. M. 
Col. S. (2d Inf.) : 

Enemy is intrenched along the line, knolls 647 and 627, stream 
junction 540 on alloway, and westward. Our army is attacking. 2d 
Brig, attacks knoll 647. Art. supports from east and west of LITTLES- 
TOWN. 1st Brig, attacks knoll 627, inclusive, to the alloway; 1st Inf., 
the left section. 

2d Inf., to which 2 cos., 3d Inf., now at pleasant hill s. H.. 
are attached, will attack hostile front from draw east of knoll 627 to 
farmhouse 300 yards west of GRAWMER, inclusive. Await my orders to 
advance beyond line, knoll 637 — PLEASANT HILL, S. H. — roadfork 564. 

Slightly wounded to knoll 726, 1\ m. s. E. littlestown. 

Ammunition distributing station : roadfork 629 near knoll 726. 

Brig. Hq. at knoll 621, N. w. tollgaTE. 

C, 
Brig. Gen. 

By aid. 

General C then rode rapidly to the central cross street 
of Littlestown, where he met the colonel of the 1st Infan- 
try. An orderly had been sent ahead to bring the colonel 
thereto from the position of his regiment, south of Littles- 
town. General C directed the colonel: 

Send your regiment via the western exit of Littlestown to cover 
near Ash Grove S. H. Come yourself with me to knoll 621, northwest 
of the Tollgate. The engineers are no longer under your orders. 

At 1-30 P. M., on knoll 621, northwest of the Tollgate, 
General C issued orders to the colonels, 1st and 3d Regi- 
ments, and his staff, as follows : 

The enemy is intrenched on the line, knolls 647 and 627, stream 
junction 540 on the Alloway, and westward. 

Our army attacks: the 2d Brigade on our right; the 2d Divis- 
ion on our left. Artillery, in position east and west of Littlestown, l-oO P. M. 
will support us. 

This Brigade will attack the hostile fiont from the first draw 
east of knoll 627 to the Alloway. 

The 2d Infantry, to which are attached the companies of the 3d 
Infantry now near Pleasant Hill S. H., attacks knoll 627, inclusive. 
to the farmhouse 300 yards west of Grawmer, inclusive. 

The 1st Infantry will attack from the farmhouse 300 yards west 
of Grawmer, exclusive, to the Alloway. The two companies of the 3d 
Infantry, now along the 544 — 564 road, are attached to the 1st In- 
fantry. 

Await my orders to advance beyond the line now occupied by the 
3d Infantry. 

The 3d Infantry (less 4 companies), in reserve, will await 
orders on the line, knolls 607 and 621. It will connect with the 2d 
Division. 

Station for slightly wounded: knoll 726, 2,000 yards southeast 
of Littlestown on the Baltimore Turnpike. 



38 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Empty combat wagons to roadfork 629, near knoll 726. 
Messages to this point (knoll 621). 



First Infantry 

The colonel sent his adjutant to meet the regiment 
somewhere southeast of Kuhn's, and to direct the majors 
and the captain of the machine gun company to trot ahead 
to knoll 607. The senior captain was instructed to mass the 
regiment under cover of knoll 691 and issue ammunition. 
About 2-00 P. M., the colonel issued orders to the officers he 
had directed to assemble and to his staff, on knoll 607, as 
follows : 

The enemy is in position on an east and west line about 2,000 
yards north of this point. 

Our army is attacking. The 3d Infantry is on our right; the 
2d Division on our left. The 3d Infantry has a couple of companies 
in the timber 1,400 yards to the north. Artillery will be west of 
Littlestown to support us. 

This Regiment will attack the hostile front from the white 
house (pointing to the one 300 yards west of Grawmer), exclusive, 
to the Alloway. 

The 1st Battalion will advance, with its right taking the direc- 
tion, stream line 400 yards east of this point (crest of knoll 607) — 
white house (one 300 yards west of Grawmer), to attack the hostile 
front from the white house, exclusive, to a point 500 yards west 
thereof. 

The 2d Battalion will advance along the road running to the 
north a half mile west of this knoll (pointing to the 573 — 544 — 584 
road), to attack the hostile front from the Alloway to a point 500 
yards east of that stream. The brigade commander has attached to 
the 1st Infantry the two companies of the 3d Infantry now north of 
this point (607). The 2d Battalion will take them with it. 

Both first line battalions will await further orders to advance 
beyond the line now occupied by the detachments of the 3d Infantry. 

The 3d Battalion and machine guns, in reserve, will follow the 
2d Battalion at 500 yards. 

Packs will be left under guard where ammunition is issued. 

Band to surgeon. Slightly wounded to knoll 726, 2,000 yards 
southeast of Littlestown on the Baltimore Turnpike. 

Ammunition wagons, in charge of Sergeant Q, to roadfork 629, 
near knoll 726, by the route of the regiment's advance to this point, 
to refill and return. 

Regimental headquarters with the reserve. 



1st Battalion, 1st Infantry 

The commander of the 1st Battalion sent his adjutant 
to cause the empty combat wagons to report to Sergeant Q, 



THE OFFENSIVE 39 

to have packs dropped, and to conduct the battalion in- 
to the timber southeast of knoll 607. The captains reported 
to the major on the nose north of knoll 607, where, at 2-30 
P. M., orders were issued as follows : 

The enemy is in position on an east and west line some 2,000 
yards north of this point. Our army is attacking. The* 2d Infantry 
is on our right, the 2d Battalion on our left, artillery behmd to sup- 
port our advance. The 3d Infantry has companies 1,400 yards north 
of us. 2-30 P. M, 

We will advance to attack. .„ , , -i. 

Companies A and B, Company A on the right, will deploy south 
of the turnpike, each upon a front of 125 yards, with 25 yards between 
companies. Company A's right near the stream line 300 yards east 
of this point. At my signal, forward, these companies will advance in 
line of platoon columns. Company A's right will march on the white 
house (pointing to the one 300 yards west of Grawmer). 

Companies C and D, Company C on the right, will follow in 
support at 400 yards. ^ ^ ,• 

Battalion headquarters will follow the center of the first line. 

The companies deployed shortly after crossing the 
stream 900 yards north of the turnpike, and, without firing, 
gained about three hundred yards farther by company and 
platoon rushes. The major semaphored Company D, R L B, 
reinforce left of Company B, caught its captain as Company 
D passed, called the captains of A and B quickly into ear- 
shot, and directed: 

Our objective is the enemy's trenches between the north and 
south fence south of the white house (300 yards west of Grawmer), 
and a point 3 fingers west of the fence which runs to the northwest, 
and over the crest at 11-00 o'clock from us. Total length of our 
objective about 17 fingers. Each company will attack the six fingers 
in its front. 



Company B 



The captain of Company B assembled his platoon lead- 
ers north of the company, in prolongation of the nearly north 
and south fence 500 yards east of roadfork 564. From that 
point faint indications of the Red trenches could be made 
out. The captain directed : 

The battalion is attacking about 17 fingers of the hostile 
trenches. 

We take the middle six fingers. 

Sight along this fence to the north. Where the prolongation 
of the southern part of the fence cuts the enemy's trench is the 
left of this company's objective. We will advance from our present 



40 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

position, guide left. Lieutenant K (commanding the left platoon) will 
cause his left skirmisher to move near this fence to the road north of 
us. Note that north of the road this fence bears off to the west, 
and will no longer serve the left skirmisher as a proper direction line. 
Each platoon of the right half of the company will fire on the 
eastern three fingers of our objective; each platoon of the left half 
of the company will fire on the western three fingers of our objective. 
Give me the range. 



2d Itatlalioiu 1>t Ini'anlry 

After noting the colonel's attack order, the major of 
the 2d Battalion rode rapidly to his battalion, which had as- 
sembled south of knoll 591. There he sent the ammunition 
wagons to Sergeant Q, caused packs to be piled, left two 
men in charge of them ; and then, sending one squad rapid- 
ly ahead to cover the movement, gained ground to the west 
with the battalion until it stood, under cover of the 591 
nose, facing north, in close line, 300 yards northwest of 
Kuhn's house. Taking the captains to the crest just north 
of the battalion, at 2-40 P. M., he directed : 

The enemy is in an east and west position a mile and a half 
north of us. 

Our army is attacking. The 2d Division is west of AUoway 
Creek. The 1st Battalion is on our right. The 3d Infantry has two 
companies a mile in front of us. They will join this battalion for the 
attack. Artillery will support us from positions vvest of Littlestown. 

This Battalion will advance to attack. 
4© p. M. Companies E and F in the first line, Company E on the right, 

will start from this point in line of platoon columns. Company E will 
move east of the road running north (pointing to the 573 — 544 — 564 
road) ; Company F west of that road. 

Companies G and H, in support, Company G. on the right, will 
follow at 400 yards. Company H will send a strong patrol along the 
Alloway to cover our left. 

Battalion headquarters will follow Company E. 

By 3-10 P. M., the leading companies had reached, and 
were lying down on an east and west line some 50 yards 
south of roadfork 564. Two companies of the 3d Infantry 
were in the timber east of Companies E and F. The enemy 
had cleared the timber due east of roadfork 564. The major 
assembled Major B, 3d Infantry, and the six captains, in 
the northern edge of the timber about 100 yards southeast of 
roadfork 564, and directed : 

Our objective extends from 2 fingers east of the first drawhead 
east of the road running north (one starting at 546) to the Alloway. 



THE OFFENSIVE 41 

The 1st Battalion, 1st Infantry, is attacking east of this timber. 

Companies E and F, 3d Infantry, attached by brigade orders to 
the 1st Infantry, will, under Major B, attack the portion of the ob- 
jective east of the road running north. 

Company E, 1st Infantry, will attack from that road, inclusive, 
to the fence 125 yards west of it; Company F, from that fence to the 
Alloway. 

Await my orders to advance from your present positions. Open 
iire as soon as you are ready. 

Companies G and H will remain for the present just north of 
the stream southwest of us. 

Messages to the first house southwest of this point (second one 
north of 544). 



3d Battalion, Ist Infantry 

The major of the 3d Battalion, after sending his empty 
ammunition wagons to Sergeant Q and dropping packs, as- 
sembled the captains in front of the battalion, on knoll 591, 
and directed : 

The enemy is in position on an east and west line a mile and a 
half north of this point. The army is attacking. The 2d Division 
west of the Alloway. Our regiment is attacking about a thousand 
yards of the hostile front from the Alloway east. The 1st Battalion is 
on the right, the 2d on the left. Artillery supports us. 

This Battalion and the machine guns are in reserve. 

At my signal forward, we will advance from this knoll in two 
lines. Companies I and K in the first line, Company I on the right; 
Companies L and M in the second line, Company L on the right. Two 
hundred yards distance between lines. 

The right companies will move down the nose due north, the left 
companies east of the road running north (pointing to the 573 — 544 
road). 

Battalion headquarters between Companies I and K. 

As soon as the last companies of the 2d Battalion had 
gained their 500 yards, the major of the 3d started his bat- 
talion. When the 2d Battalion opened fire, about 3-20 P. 
M., the two right companies of the 3d Battalion were in 3-20 p. m. 
the two patches of timber between Ash Grove S. H. and 
the house 800 yards to the north. The left companies were 
abreast of them and in the draw just east of the 573 — 544 
road. 



Machine Gun Company 

The Machine Gun Company, extending its distances 
and trotting its animals across exposed spaces, moved north 



42 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

to Ash Grove S. H., and then through the comfie/d and 
patches of timber to the farmhouse 800 yards north of the 
schoolhouse. The combat wagon moved up rapidly to 
the shelter of the cornfield, where the ammunition was 
unloaded. The ammunition mules of the gun squads were 
unpacked at the farmhouse 800 yards north of Ash Grove 
S. H. ; then returned and brought up the ammunition which 
had been unloaded at the schoolhouse. The combat wagon 
went back to the distributing station with the other emp- 
ties of the regiment. 



By 3-20 P. M., regimental headquarters was estab- 
lished at the farmhouse 800 yards north of Ash Grove S. H. 
At that point, it was in flag communication with the majors 
of both the first line battalions and with brigade head- 
quarters on knoll 621. The sergeant major was in charge 
of the agents of communication, who were the orderlies of 
regimental headquarters. Two remained mounted on the 
farm road south of the house for delivery of written or ver- 
bal messages. Three were on the house ; one watching the 
1st Battalion headquarters, one that of the 2d, and the 
third, that of the brigade. A messenger was below within 
call. The remaining orderlies were in charge of the horses. 

The Band had taken the litters from the ammunition 
wagons and had come up to this farmhouse at the surgeon's 
orders. 



2d Infantry 



The brigade commander's message directing the 2d In- 
fantry to attack, found Colonel S on knoll 647, west of Le- 
fevre, and his regiment disposed as follows: Eight com- 
panies and the machine guns were massed between knolls 
647 and 652. Two companies of the 1st Battalion were in 
the timber north of crossroads 602. A platoon from each 
of Companies A and B was on knoll 637, 1,200 yards east of 
Pleasant Hill S. H. The remainder of Company A was in 
the clump of timber 400 yards southeast of knoll 637; the 
remainder of Company B at the fannhouse 200 yards south 



THE OFFENSIVE 43 

of knoll 637. The brigade order was received at 1-25 P. M. 
Colonel S at once directed the lieutenant colonel to march 
the regiment, less the 1st Battalion, under cover south of 
the Northern Central railroad, to a point south of the eas- 
tern exit of Littlestown. He then had the following mes- 
sage written : 

No. 1 2d Inf., 

Knoll 647, 
2 Sept., 15, 1-35 P. M. 
Maj. K (1st Bn.): 

Army attacks. 2d Brig, attacks knoll 647, 1,400 yds. north your 
leading companies. j.35 -> j^^ 

2d Inf., from LITTLESTOWN, advances via pleasant hill s. h. to 
attack knoll 627 and west thereof. 

Your Bn., in reserve, will, until further orders, remain in present 
positions. Connect with 2d Brig. 

Slightly wounded to knoll 726, 2,000 yards s. E. LITTLESTOWN on 

HALT. PIKE. 

Combat empties to roadfork 629, near knoll 726. 
Messages to east exit littlestown. 

S, 

Col. 
Delivered by the adjutant. 

The colonel then trotted by the marching regiment, 
picking up en route the majors and commander of the ma- 
chine gun company, to a suitable point near the eastern 
exit of Littlestown. There, at 1-45 P. M., he issued orders, 
as follows : 

The enemy is in position along an east and west line 3,000 yards 
north of Littlestown. Our army is attacking. 

The 2d Brigade is on our right; the 1st Infantry on our left. 
Artillery will support from positions east and west of Littlestown. 
Two companies of the 3d Infantry are now near Pleasant Hill S. H. 

This Regiment will attack the hostile front from the draw east 
of knoll 627, inclusive, to the farmhouse 300 yards west of Grawmer, 
inclusive. 

The 2d Battalion will advance, in conjunction with the 3d Bat- ^^^ p j^ 
talion, from the eastern exit of Littlestown, by routes east of Plea- 
sant Hill S. H., to attack from the first draw east of knoll 627 to the 
Pleasant Hill S. H. — Grawmer road, exclusive. 

The 3d Battalion will advance by the main cross street of Lit- 
tlestown, a half mile west of this point; thence west of Pleasant Hill 
S. H., to attack from roadfork 598, inclusive, to a point in the hostile 
position south of the house 300 yards west of Grawmer. 

Each of the attacking battalions will attach to it one of the 3d 
Infantry companies now at Pleasant Hill S. H. 

Await further orders to advance beyond Pleasant Hill S. H. 

The 1st Battalion, in reserve, remains for the present near knoll 
637. The Machine Gun Company, in reserve, will follow the 2d Bat- 
talion at 400 yards. 

Band to the surgeon. Slightly wounded to knoll 726, 2,000 yards 
southeast of Littlestown on the Baltimore Turnpike. 



44 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Empty combat wagons to roadfork 629, near knoll 7^6. 
Messages to this point for the present. 



2d Battalion. 2d Infantry 

Upon receipt of the colonel's order, the major of the 2d 
Battalion rode back to his battalion. South of the crest 
southeast of the eastern exit of Littlestown, the major is- 
sued ammunition, then directed the empty wagons to pro- 
ceed to roadfork 629 to refill and return to the eastern exit 
of Littlestown. The major then marched the battalion un- 
der cover of the cornfields, through the eastern part of Lit- 
tlestown, until its head approached the farmhouse about 
450 yards northwest of the eastern exit of the town. Halt- 
ing the battalion, he assembled the captains and, at 2-15 P. 
M., ordered : 

The enemy is in position along an east and west line about 2,500 
yards north of this point. Our army is attacking. The 2d Brigade 
"is on our right; the 3d Battalion on our left. The 1st Battalion, in 
reserve, is now on the hill three quarters of a mile to our right front. 
Two companies of the 3d Infantry are near Pleasant Hill S. H. Ar- 
,^ . .. tillery supports from east and west of Littlestov/n. 

--lo P. M. ^g ^^jjj advance to attack. 

Companies E and F will constitute the first line. Company E on 
the right, the base company. Deploying interval. Company E will 
march so as to pass just west of the yellow house beyond the timber 
to the north (pointing to R. Sell). 

Companies G and H, Company G on the right, will follow in sup- 
port at 400 yards. 

Battalion headquarters will follow the center of the first line at 
50 yards. 

Make your preliminary arrangements for starting, but await my 
signal to advance from this cornfield. 

The major sent his adjutant up on the farm building to 
watch for the 3d Battalion. When its advance was reported 
in line with the Tollgate, the major signalled to the 2d Bat- 
talion to start. 

By 2-45 P. M., the leading companies were lying down 
northeast of Pleasant Hill S. H., and one hundred to two 
hundred yards south of the crest, which was occupied by 
a thin line of company scouts. Company A of the 3d In- 
fantry was the nearest to Pleasant Hill S. H. With this 
2-4o p. M. company, the battalion now had three companies in the 
first line ; the two in support were near the stream line three 
to four hundred yards to the south. 



THE OFFENSIVE 45 

The major assembled his five captains on the crest, in 
front of the center company. The wooded knoll 627 was in 
full view to the north, and indications of an occupied 
trench, somewhat south of the timber line, were to be made 
out. The major directed : 

Our objective extends from the roadfork (598) at 11-00 o'clock, 
to the draw east of the wooded knoll (627) at 12-00 o'clock. 

Company A, 3d Infantry, will attack the hostile front from the 
roadfork (pointing- to 598) to the green house 9 fingers east thereof, 
exclusive. 

Company F, from the green house, inclusive, 8 fingers to the east 
thereof. 

Company E, fi-om the draw east of the wooded knoll (r>27) to a 
point 8 fingers east of the green house. 

Await my order to open fire. 



(".oiiipany F 

When the major had finished his assignment of objec- 
tives, the captain of Company F assembled his platoon lead- 
ers. Then, all prone on the crest where the center of the 
company would be in its first firing position, he directed : 

Reference, green house at 11-30. Extending due east from that 
house and about 50 yards this side of the timber on the wooded knoll 
(627), catch the Red trench. 

That trench, from the green house to a point 8 fingers east of the 
house, is our objective. 

Each platoon of the right half of the company will fire on the 
entire eastern half of the objective; each platoon of the left half of 
the company will fire on the entire western half of the objective. 

Aiming point, bottom line of house fence and bottom line of timber 
on the knoll. 

Give me the range. 

After hearing from his range finders, and concluding 
that the distance to the timber was 700 yards, the captain 
announced, Range 650, in order to pull the sheaf of fire into 
the hostile trench. 

Each platoon leader then went to where the center of 
his platoon in the firing position would rest, brought his 
assistant and his squad leaders into place, lying down, on 
both sides of him ; and directed somewhat as follows : 

Reference, green house at 11-30. Look for hostile trench running 
out at 3-00 o'clock fi'om green house. That house and trench is the 
company's objective. The target of this platoon is that house and 
four fingers of the trench east of it. Aiming point, bottom line of 
house fence and bottom line of timber on the wooded knoll. Range 
650. 



46 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

When the major ordered the battalion into its firing 
position, Company F, to avoid exposure, crawled the last 
few feet. Each squad leader then rapidly pointed out the 
platoon target to his men, now using sight leaves in desig- 
nating its boundaries ; cautioned the squad to take the first, 
or second, fourth, etc. depending upon the squad's position ; 
gave the aiming point and the range; and, when certain 
that all his men understood, each squad leader signalled 
ready to his platoon leader. 

The orders and arrangements in the other companies 
were similar, except that in the first firing position, Com- 
pany E, on the right, was unable to fire on its proper objec- 
tive because of the small intervening ground fold. 



•3d Battalion, 2d Infantt7- 

The 3d Battalion issued ammunition in the street of 
Littlestown a few hundred yards north of 609. Empties 
were ordered to roadfork 629 to refill and come up to the 
northern exit of Littlestown. The major then marched 
the battalion to cover of the cornfield east of Tollgate, and, 
at 2-20 P. M., issued orders to his captains as follows : 

The enemy is in position on an east and west line some 2,500 
yards north of this point. Our army is attacking. The 2d Battalion 
is on our right; the 1st Infantry on our left. Two companies of the 
3d Infantry are near the crossroads 1,500 yards north of us. Artil- 
lery supports us from positions east and west of Littlestown. 

This Battalion will advance to attack. 
l-2Xi P. M. Companies I and K will constitute the first line; Company K 

on the left, the base company. Company K will march on the un- 
painted house (pointing to one 450 yards southwest of Pleasant 
Hill S. H.). 

Companies L and M will follow, in support, at 400 yards. Com- 
pany M on the left. 

Battalion headquarters will follow the first line companies at 50 
yards. 

The 3d Battalion found Company B, 3d Infantry, de- 
ployed in the draw west of Pleasant Hill S. H. Companies 
I and K deployed in the draw southwest of Company B, 
with intervals of fifty yards between companies. The 
ridge in front was occupied by the scouts. Company L 
halted in the timber just northwest of 558 W, and Company 
M in the patch 300 yards farther west. The major as- 



THE OFFENSIVE 47 

sembled the five captains at the farmhouse 400 yards north 
of 558W. From the stream junction 700 yards west of Plea- 
sant Hill S. H., the enemy had cleared the timber to the 
north and northeast right up to the 564 — 598 road. The 
house 700 yards west of roadfork 598 was on fire. The 
major, at 2-40 P. M., directed : 

Our objective extends from the roadfork north of us (pointing 
to 598) to include the white house at 11-00 o'clock (pointing to the one 
300 yards west of Grawmer). 

Company B, 3d Infantry, will attack the hostile front from the 
roadfork (598), inclusive, to the red barn about 5 fingers west of 
the roadfork, inclusive. 2-40 p. m. 

Company I will attack from the red barn, exclusive, to a point 5 
fingers west thereof. 

Company K will attack from one finger east of the burning build- 
ing to a point 6 fingers east thereof. 

Await my orders to advance from the present positions of the 
companies. 

The orders and arrangements in the companies of the 
firing line of this battalion were very similar to those in 
the 2d Battalion. Before opening fire, however, the two 
left companies swung forward beyond the crest until Com- 
pany K's left was north of the stream fork 700 yards west 
of Pleasant Hill S. H. While waiting for orders to advance, 
the ground scouts of the first line companies worked 
through the timber felled by the enemy, to determine the 
practicability of its passage by heavy skirmish lines. Un- 
til the battalion started this advance, battalion headquarters 
remained at the house 400 yards north of 558W. There 
one orderly held the horses, and one was in semaphore 
communication with the two companies in support. The 
sergeant major established semaphore connection with re- 
gimental headquarters; the adjutant assisted the major in 
the observation of the enemy and of the first line companies. 



1st Battalion, 2cl Infantry 

The 1st Battalion, it will be remembered, had two com- 
panies in the timber at crossroads 602 and two on, and south 
of, knoll 637. Its extra ammunition had been issued some 
hours before. The empty combat wagons were standing 
south of knoll 647. Upon receipt of the colonel's message 
of 1-35 P. M., the major caused the following to be sent : 



48 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING ' 

1st Bn., 
Knoll 637, 
2 Sept., 15, 1-40 P. M. 
^ Private J (teamster in charge ammunition wagons) : 

1-4U p. M. Conduct am. wagons by routes, covered from view to north, south 

of LITTLESTOWN to ammunition distributing station near roadfork 629, 
li miles southeast littlestown on Baltimore turnpike. 
Refill and return to lefevre exit littlestown. 

K, 
Adj. 

The major then sent copies of the following to the three 
company commanders not with him. 

1st Bn., 
Knoll 637, 
2 Sept., 15, 1-50 P. M. 
F. O. No. 6. 

1. The army is attacking, 2d Brig, is on our right. Our regi- 
1-.S0 p M ment attacks via pleasant hill s. h. 

2. This Battalion, in reserve, remains for present as now sta- 
tioned. 

K, 
Maj. 

Battalion headquarters was at the house two hundred 
yards due south of knoll 637. There, the major had an ex- 
tended view towards the enemy and could also watch the 
advance of the 2d Brigade. He was in semaphore commu- 
nication with all of his companies, and when regimental 
headquarters moved up to the vicinity of Pleasant Hill S. 
H., with that too. 



Machine Gun Company 

The machine guns followed the 2d Battalion to the 
vicinity of the faiTnhouse 450 yards north of the eastern 
exit of Littlestown ; and thence under cover of the timber 
along the stream to the north and southeast of 558W, into 
the patch 400 yards west of R. Sell. The combat wagon 
unloaded its ammunition at the farmhouse 450 yards north- 
west of the eastern exit of Littlestown, and proceeded to 
the distributing station to refill. The ammunition mules of 
the gun squads unloaded their ammunition in the timber 
west of R. Sell, and brought up that dropped by the combat 
Avagon. 



Regimental headquarters followed the 2d Battalion to 
the house 400 yards southeast of Pleasant Hill S. H. 



THE OFFENSIVE 49 

There, semaphore connection was at once established with 
each of the three battalions and with brigade headquar- 
ters on knoll 621, near the Tollgate. 



Progress of the Engagement — Incidents and 
Actions, 3-30 to 5-30 P. M. 

By 3-30 P. M., the two first line brigades had completed 
their deployment as indicated in the preceding orders and 
statements. (See sketch No. 1). Each brigade comman- 
der promptly telephoned the fact of completion to division 3-30 p. m. 
headquarters. The division commander, at 3-30 P. M., tele- 
phoned the 1st Brigade : Advance arid attack. To the ar- 
tillery brigadier he said : The infantry is advancing. 
Support it's attack. 

Headquarters of the 1st Brigade immediately sema- 
phored its attacking regiments : Advance and attack. 
Each regimental commander transmitted the order by the 
same means to his first line battalions. The infantry com- 
panies of those battalions not already engaged, moved into 
their first firing positions and opened fire. 

The advance of the 4th Infantry against knoll 647, 
with its threat of an envelopment, very quickly led to an 
extension of the Red firing lines to roadfork 613. The 
commander of the 2d Brigade immediately directed the 
colonels of the 5th and 6th Regiments : 

The enemy has extended his lines to roadfork 613. The 6th 
Infantry, passing east of Valley Grove S. H., will attack at once 
toward roadfork 613. The 5th Infantry will cross the stream 500 
yards east of this point (Wentz fai-m) and, at 500 yards distance 
to the right rear of the 6th Infantry, will march on the bridge east 
of Bashore Mill. 

Brigade headquarters will follow the 6th Infantry. 

He then sent the following message : 

2d Brig., 
WENTZ farm, 
2 Sept., 15, 4-00 P. M. 
Col. M (4th Inf.) : 

6th Inf. attacks at once towards I'oadfork 613. 

C, 
Brig. Gen. 

By messenger. 



50 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

The 6th Infantry was in the draw east of Christ S. H., 
massed very close to the large branch of the Little Cone- 
wago. The colonel rode rapidly to his regiment, issued 
ammunition, turned the Band over to the surgeon; then 
immediately set the regiment in march due north, west of, 
and close to, the main stream. The colonel directed the 
adjutant of the 3d Battalion to take half a dozen of the 
mounted orderlies and patrol rapidly ahead of the regi- 
ment to Bashore Mill. The colonel also directed the leading 
major to cause a platoon to gain a few^ hundred yards ahead, 
by increasing the gait, to secure the march. The remainder 
of the regiment marched steadily north in column of squads, 
keeping the stream about 100 yards to the right. At the 
farmhouse 550 yards northeast of Valley Grove S. H., the 
colonel, at 4-20 P. M., issued orders to his assembled majors 
and the commander of the machine gun company, as fol- 
lows : 

The enemy has extended his left to the roadfork two thousand 
yards to the northwest (613). 

We will attack in that direction. 

The 1st Battalion, passing east of this house, will advance to at- 
tack; its left taking the direction of the green house (pointing to 
4. 9'Xli p M ^^® ^"^ ^^^ yards southeast of roadfork 613) — roadfork 613. 
-- ' ■ ■ The 2d Battalion will advance west of this house (550 yards 

northeast of Valley Grove S. H.) to attack from roadfork 613 to a 
point 300 yards west thereof. 

The 3d Battalion and machine guns, in reserve, will move to 
cover near Bashore Mill, a thousand yards north of this house. Pa- 
trol strongly to the north and northwest. The hostile cavalry brigade 
was last reported about a mile and a half northwest of Bashore Mill. 

Messages to the reserve. 

The advance of the 6th Infantry reached the general 
line of the clump of timber 700 yards west of Washington 
Meeting House, roadbend 500 yards west of A. J. Bair; 
when the enemy's infantry attacked in strength towards 
the southeast from the line, knolls 622 — 603 — 607 — A Rifle, 
while strong forces of dismounted cavalry attacked at the 
same time from the direction of Dome, east of Brushtown. 
The 6th Infantry hurried its 3d Battalion and machine guns 
to the clump of timber 700 yards M^est of Washington Meet- 
ing House. Headquarters of the 2d Brigade had followed 
the 6th Infantry to the farmhouse 600 yards northeast of 
Valley Grove S. H. General C immediately ordered one 
battalion of the 5th Infantry into the gap between the 6th 



THE OFFENSIVE 51 

and the Conewago, and one battalion to support the 1st 
Cavalry. The 1st Cavalry had moved from Sells Station 
abreast of the 5th Infantry's advance, and from southeast 
of Brushtown it opposed this enveloping movement of the 
Red cavahy. Reinforced ultimately by another battalion 
of the 5th Infantry, the 1st Cavalry, with its left driven into 
the eastern edge of the large patch of timber south of Em- 
lett, was finally able to stop the Red cavalry. By all of 
these dispositions, the enemy's energetic counter attack was 
every^vhere gradually brought to a standstill. So that by 
5-30 P. M., although suffering severe losses both from 
small arms and artillery fire from northwest of knoll 647, 
the 2d Brigade and the cavalry seemed able to prevent a 
further hostile advance in their front ; but, at the same time, 
were unable to gain any ground themselves. Everywhere 
along the extended front of the division, the opposing firing 
lines were practically continuous and hotly and closely en- 
gaged. Casualties in the Blue lines were heavy; and, in 
many sections of the line, ammunition was running low. The 
Blue firing line began at Alloway Creek west of the house 
200 yards north of roadfork 564; passed north of that 
house ; then nearly due east to the roadbend 300 yards south- 
east of roadfork 598 ; thence to the roadbend 500 yards west 
of A. J. Bair ; thence northeast to include the clump of tim- 
ber 700 yards west of Washington Meeting House ; thence on 
a gentle curve to cross the Conewago 300 yards north of 
525 W ; whence it jumped to the eastern side of the large 
grove southeast of the Hartzel farmhouse. To obtain and 
maintain this long line in full strength, nearly all the sup- 
ports and regimental reserves had been absorbed. 

The reports of General A's information officer west of 
the Alloway indicated that both the 2d and 3d Divisions 
were fighting desperately, but with no decision yet in sight. 



The Decision 

General A's Estimate of the Situation 

General A still has one brigade in reserve. If he is 
going to make any use at all of it, the time therefor seems 
to have arrived. 



52 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

The enemy appears to have thrown all of his reserves, 
on the eastern flank, into a determined counter attack. It 
is very possible that, if the Blue reserve brigade should ad- 
vance through Brushtown, it would find very little to oppose 
it, and the hostile left would be turned and broken. The 
advent of the reserve brigade there, should bring an im- 
mediate decision. 

But the division is already dangerously extended. From 
the Alloway to the cavalry's right, its firing line is about 
4.^ miles in length. To move the 3d Brigade beyond the 
cavalry and deploy it there, would take more than two 
hours; and in two hours it will be dark. Artillery would 
have to be taken from its present position to go with the 
brigade. During the progress of this movement, the enemy, 
with the lessened artillery pressure, w^ould quite likely 
take the offensive and sweep General A's sorely tried and 
ver>' thin lines from the field. General A, therefore, be- 
cause of the lack of time to complete the movement and 
attack before dark, and because of the dangerous exten- 
sion involved, decides against the use of the reserve brigade 
beyond the Little Conewago. 

The enveloping form of the attack has produced a 
salient in the Red lines about knoll 647; and that salient 
must be suff'ering severely under the consequent concen- 
tration of infantry fire it is receiving. It is possible to add 
very greatly to the Blue fire eflfect by turning the greater 
part of the artillery fire in that direction, and without mov- 
ing any of the batteries. The reserve brigade, thrown 
straight towards a limited section about knoll 647, can there 
more quickly intervene than in any other direction. The 
Blue firing lines are still some six hundred yards from the 
Red trenches ; yet the order to advance everywhere, a strong 
concentration of the artillery and machine guns on the 
front selected, and the approach of a whole fresh brigade, 
will probably enable the firing lines to close in materially be- 
fore the first lines of the reserve brigade join them. Then 
the fresh troops must carry them over the remaining dis- 
tance. The front of attack must be broad enough to give 
full play to the brigade's strength, but no greater. The 
division commander, accordingly, decides to send his re- 



THE OFFENSIVE 53 

serve brigade at the front Grawmer — roadfork 613. 



General A's Orders 

At 5-30 P. M., the chief of staff telephones to the com- 
mander of the 3d Brigade : 

Your brigade will advance at once for the decisive attack against 
the hostile front between roadfork 598 and roadfork 613. 5-oO p. m. 

Send your machine guns ahead to assist in fire preparation from 
crest 500 vards northeast of Pleasant Hill S. H. 



The Decisive Attack 
3d Brigade 

The brigade commander is with his colonels on knoll 
766, two miles southeast of Littlestown. He immediately 
orders as follows : 

This Brigade makes the decisive attack. 

The 7th Infantry will advance via Lefevre, on a front of 1,000 
yards, to attack from the burning house near the crest of knoll 647. 
inclusive, to roadfork 613. This regiment will not pass Lefevre un- 
til the advance of the 8th Infantry passes Littlestown. 

The 8th Infantry will advance via the eastern exit of Littlestown. 
on a front of 1,000 yards, to attack from the buining house on knoll 
647, exclusive, to roadfork 598. ' 

The 9th Infantry, in reserve, will follow the center of the first 
line at 500 yards. 

Every effort will be made to close at once with the enemy. 

The machine gun companies of the three regiments, under Cap- 
tain M, 8th Infantry, will move rapidly ahead to the crest 500 yards 
northeast of Pleasant Hill S. H. to assist in fire preparation for the 
assault. Target: hostile lines from roadfork 598 to 613. 

Brigade headquarters will be between the 7th and 8th Regiments. 

The colonel of the 7th Infantry issued at once extra 
ammunition, ordered emptj' wagons to proceed to 733 as 
soon as the brigade was out of the way, piled packs, had the 
band report to the surgeon; then conducted the regiment, 
in column of squads, along the eastern edge of the timber on 
knoll 766 and the deep draw to the north, towards Lefevre. 
Before starting, the machine guns were directed to report to 
Captain M. The field officers trotted ahead to knoll 652, 
south of Lefevre; where at 5-55 P. M., the colonel directed: 

Our brigade makes the decisive attack. The 8th Infantry is on 
our left; the 9th behind us. 

This Regiment attacks the hostile front from the burning build- 



54 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

ing on knoll 647, inclusive, to the roadfork (613) 1,000 yards east of 
that building. 

The Regiment, provisionally, will deploy in two lines : 1st and 2d 
5-55 p M Battalions, in the order named from left to right, 1st line; 3d Bat- 
talion, 2d line. 

First line along railroad north of this point, left at fence corner 
250 yards north of this knoll (652). Each battalion on a front of 
400 yards, with two companies in the first line, interval between bat- 
talions, 200 yards. 

Second line behind the timber south of this knoll (652). 

At my signal the Regiment will advance in line of coltunns, the 
left of the 1st Battalion marching on the burning building on knoll 
647. The Regiment will close with the enemy at once. 

The 3d Battalion will follow the 2d at 400 yards. 

Regimental headquarters in the center of the first line. 

The 8th Infantry, after similar preparatory disposi- 
tions, moved over the ridge under cover of the timber east 
of knoll 724 and down the stream heading thereat. The 
regiment deployed v^^ith its first line on the Littlestown — 
Lefevre road, and then advanced with its left taking the 
direction, Pleasant Hill S. H. — roadfork 598. 

The 9th Infantry, also in four lines of columns, passed 
west of Lefevre. 



ITie Machine Guns 

The consolidated machine guns of the brigade were 
conducted rapidly ahead under cover of the eastern build- 
ings in Littlestown, the cornfield north thereof, the patches 
of timber along the stream lines east and southeast of 
558W, and up the stream bed which passes 500 yards 
southeast of Pleasant, Hill S. H., to the crest where that 
stream heads. Every effort was made to get into position 
along that crest without attracting the hostile attention. 
The machine guns of the 2d Infantry were already in posi- 
tion in readiness midway between Pleasant Hill S. H. and 
road bend 617. Those of the 3d Brigade went in to the 
right of those of the 2d Infantry. Intervals were increased 
so that the 4 companies occupied a front of about six 
hundred yards. To the right company, Captain M assigned 
the hostile lines from knoll 647, exclusive, to roadfork 613 ; 
to the center company, knoll 647; and to the 3d company, 
knoll 647, exclusive, to knoll 627, exclusive. The guns of 
the 2d Infantry were left to cover the remainder of the de- 



THE OFFENSIVE 55 

cisive front. Ranges were obtained and all preliminary' 
measures taken for firing, but the machine guns remained 
quiet until the advanced lines of the 3d Brigade were draw- 
ing near, until the whole division was struggling to advance, 
and a decision was evidently a matter of a few minutes 
only. Then the guns, firing over the attacking infantry, 
began to spray the hostile line. 

The combat wagons unloaded their ammunition at the 
northern edge of the cornfield north of the eastern exit of 
Littlestown, and went back to refill. The ammunition mules 
of the gun squads also unloaded theirs upon nearing the 
position selected for the guns, and returned to this cornfield 
to reload. 



Events, 6-30 to 7-30 P. M. 

By 6-30 P. M., the leading formations of the 3d Bri- 
gade were approaching the line Pleasant Hill S. H. — Todt. 
The division commander directed his chief of staff to tele- 
phone to the 2d and 3d Brigades : 

The Division will assault. 

This was promptly transmitted by semaphore through regi- 
ments to all battalions. At the same time General A di- 
rected the artillery brigadier : 

Concentrate all practicable fire on hostile front from crossroads 
598 to roadfork 613. 

The 1st Brigade still had 8 companies of the 1st In- 
fantry and its machine guns in reserve. General B im- 
mediately ordered the 1st Infantry to advance, with its left 
on the 573 — 544 — 564 road, to assault. Its machine guns 
were rushed ahead to roadfork 564. The battalions ad- 
vanced abreast in line of columns. 

All remaining supports and regimental reserves 
throughout the division were ordered forward, straight to 
their front. G. G. was being signalled everywhere from 
rear to front. The first line battalions began desperate ef- 
forts to gain ground by rushes, and in the next fifteen min- 
utes they made an average gain of perhaps a hundred and 
fiftjT^ yards. By that time, the 3d Brigade, with its first 



5(.; PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

echelon a strong skirmish line and its succeeding echelons 
in line of columns, was closing rapidly on the firing lines. 
The concentrated artillery and machine gun fire rose to the 
utmost possible intensity. Trumpets from the direction of 
division headquarters were heard sounding the Charge, 
which was immediately taken up by those of all organiza- 
tions. At 7-00 o'clock, the hostile trenches on knolls 627 
and 647 were carried. The division commander, who was 
still on the house in Littlestown, directed the artillery brig- 
adier : 

Get a battalion of artillery to the 627 — 647 line at once. 

Then the general with his escort and personal staff 
galloped towards knoll 647. 

Shortly after the trenches on 627 and 647 were carried, 
the Reds evacuated their trenches west of the Pleasant Hill 
S. H. — Grawmer road, and their lines north and northwest 
of Washington Meeting House also retired ver>' promptly 
after the appearance of the Blue artillery near knoll 647. 
The Blue firing lines pursued by fire as long as the Reds of- 
fered targets. In this work of destruction, the firing lines 
were greatly assisted by the machine guns, which were all 
rushed forward as the Red trenches were overrun, and a 
battalion of artillery, the firing batteries of which came for- 
ward rapidly from Littlestown. 



Advance of Accompanying Batteries 

I Captain Scott) 

At 6-30 P. M., Gen. E issued the following orders to 
Major A, 1st L. A., by telephone : 

Division assaults at once. This battalion is designated to ad- 
vance to the support of our infantry when it carries the hostile po- 
sition at hills 647 — 627. Take only firing batteries. Battery C sub- 
ject to your orders. Make all preparations consistent with carrying 
on your present duties. 

Orders of Major A 

By agent to Battery C: 

Division assaults at once. This battalion is designated to ad- 
vance to hostile position, hills 647 — 627, when it is carried by the in- 
fantry. Select your route, and be ready to advance with firing bat- 



THE OFFENSIVE 57 

tery only, when 1 give the word. Meantime continue your present 
duty. 

A, 
Major. 

To Captains A & B, and Lt. D, agent, C. Tn. : 

The general assault is about to begin, and it is expected that 
hills 647 and 627 will be carried. This Battalion is to advance to 
that position. Fire will be continued as already directed until I 
order the advance. Only firing batteries will advance. See that 
limbers and caissons are kept full. Combat trains and limbers will 
come up to the batteries at once. 

Route for Battery A: East end of Littlestown — 602 — Pleasant 
Hill S. H. — the right hand road just beyond it. Should you come un- 
der fire near 602, go across country in line towards 647. 

Route for Battery B: The pike to the Tollgate — right hand 
road to Pleasant Hill S. H. — right hand road beyond it. 

March prepared for action. Send men out now to cut all wire 
fences along your lines of march. 

The gait will be a trot out unless a battery comes under artillery 
fire, in which case the gallop will be taken. 

As soon as combat trains are filled, they will follow the firing- 
batteries. 

Reel cart will follow Battery B. Wire will be laid to the end of 
the reel, and a station established to maintain communication with 
Brig, hdqrs. 

I will ride in advance of Battery B. 

Captain D, go at once to Pleasant Hill S. H. with the scouts 
and, as soon as possible, reconnoiter positions for the batteries. Pick 
up the battery reconnaissance parties (now with the infanti'y) and 
use them. 

Telephone to Gen. E: 

Battery A will go by 602— Pleasant Hill S. H. towards hill 647. 
Battery B by Tollgate— Pleasant Hill S. H. towards hill 647. 
Battery C takes its own route. Request that you telephone di- 
rect to Captain C when he is to move. 

Will be ready to move in a few minutes. 
Will lay wire from here. 

At 7-02; a message was received from General E : 

1st Bn. 1st L. A. Move out. 

Major A directed: 
Move out at once. 

He then mounted and, accompanied by his agents, or- 
derly, and musician, rode at a full gallop via the Tollgate to 
Pleasant Hill S. H., arriving there at 7-10. 

A marker met him there with the information that 
Captain D had gone ahead on the right hand road. Major 
A then galloped on and met Captain D near the small or- 



58 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

chard north of 617. The latter reported that the enemy was 
retiring everywhere, and that a battery to the east of the 
road on hill 647, and another west of the road could get 
good positions. 

Meet the batteries as they come up and put them in action, as 
you suggest, to fire on all targets. Then look for hostile targets. 

I will go over to hill 627. 

Corporal Z, meet Battery C. Have the battery commander meet 
me at that roadfork (pointing to 598). Battery to follow him. 

Major A then galloped across to 627 and north along 
the west edge of the woods. Hostile lines were moving off 
towards the north and northwest. Major A rode rapidly 
south to 598, where he met Captain C. 

Go into action just north of that farmhouse (200 yards north- 
east). From the woods beyond the farmhouse you will see the hostile 
infantry. Fire on it. 



The Pursuit 

(Captain Fiske) 

The 9th Infantry, in reserve to the 3d Brigade, came 
steadily forward. South of knoll 647, its colonel was met 
by an aid who carried General D's instructions to pursue 
towards Whitehall. 

The regiment had been advancing in two lines, the 
first line consisted of two battalions, the second of one. 
Each battalion was in two lines, of two companies each. 
Each company was in column of squads. The colonel 
rode over to the left battalion and directed its major : 

We pursue towards Whitehall. Change direction to the left 
and march on the north edge of the timber on knoll 627. Halt when 
your advance approaches the crest. 

Riding then to the right battalion, he directed : 

We pursue towards Whitehall. The Regiment changes direc- 
tion three quarters left. Halt your battalion when its advance 
reaches the crest northeast of the timber on knoll 627, where the 1st 
Battalion will halt. Then join me midway between the battalions. 

The change of direction completed, and the three ma- 
jors having reported, the colonel pointed out the Schild — 
Whitehall S. H. road, its fences in the growing darkness 
could still be made out, and directed : 



THE OFFENSIVE 59 

We will advance on Whitehall S. H., the 1st Battalion, the base 
battalion, west of that road (Schild— Whitehall S. H.), the 2d Bat- 
talion east of the road. Interval 400 yards. The 3d Battalion will 
follow the center of the first line at 300 yards. I will follow the first 
line battalions at 100 yards. Take up the advance. 

The major of the 1st Battalion rode back to a point be- 
tween his two first line companies, where his captains, 
during his absence, had been assembled by the adjutant, 
and directed : 

We pursue towards Whitehall. Company A, on the right, will 
pass about two hundred yards west of that house (pointing to the 
Schild farmhouse) and then west of the road (Schild — Whitehall 
S. H.) towards Whitehall S. H. Company B will maintain its inter- 
val of 200 yards. Each company will send a deployed platoon 200 
yards to its front. Company D (on the left of the second line pair of 
companies) will send a platoon 300 yards to the left of Company B, 
to secure the left flank. 

The orders and arrangements in the 2d Battalion, on 
the right, were similar. A platoon from one of the com- 
panies in support covered the right. 



A Night Attack 

Shortly after 7-30, darkness had fallen. 

When the regiment reached the Schild rise, the leading 
platoons, two hundred yards west thereof, were fired upon 
from the stream towards Whitehall S. H. Patrols to the 
north and to the south also drew heavy fire from across 
the stream, and for a thousand yards in each direction. 
The regiment halted while these patrols were reconnpiter- 
ing. 

The colonel must decide at once: Shall the regiment 
attack or, if not, what other action can be taken ? 

The development of hostile fire from so extended a 
front indicates considerable, and probably very superior. 
Red strength. But on the other hand, the Reds' willing- 
ness to open fire may indicate a considerable degree of 
demoralization. The enemy in front of the 9th Infantry 
consists, very probably, of the same troops that, but a 
short time before, were driven from their trenches, and 
whose morale must therefore be greatly lowered. To beat 
them again, in the darkness when their fears will perhaps 



60 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

many times magnify the Blue numbers, may consequently 
be an easy task; and their defeat now can be expected to 
turn the Red retreat into a rout. Of course, in attacking, 
the colonel runs the risk of striking fresh troops brought 
from some other part of the field, and whose morale may be 
anything but impaired. There is only one way of learning 
which is the case, that is, by a prompt and energetic attack. 
And, as a matter of fact, the colonel considers that he has 
very little choice in the matter. He has been ordered to 
pursue. He could hardly stop as soon as he runs into an 
enemy. 

The colonel had assembled his majors while waiting 
for the reports of his flanking patrols. At 8-00 o'clock, 
he directed : 

We will attack towards Whitehall S. H., with the bayonet. 
, The right battalion north of the road (Schild — Whitehall S. 

&-W p, M. jj ) . ^}jg igf^ battalion, the base, south of this road; each on a front 
of 250 yards. 

The 3d Battalion, in two lines at 100 yards distance, will ad- 
vance to this country road with its right 400 yards south of the 
Schild— Whitehall S. H. road. 

Make your preparations promptly and quietly. Report readi- 
ness and await my order to advance from this ridge. Place white 
bandage on the left arm. I will remain at this roadfoi-k till the ad- 
vance starts and then join the 3d Battalion. 

The major of the 1st Battalion returned to his battalion, 
assembled his captains, and directed : 

The regiment attacks with the bayonet. The 2d Battalion 
north of the road to our right. The 3d Battalion, in reserve, takes 
station to our left. 

This Battalion will attack south of this road. 

Companies A and B, first line; C and D, second line. 

Distance between lines 100 paces. The right of Company A 
will advance parallel to the road and 25 yards south thereof. Com- 
pany scouts will precede the battalion. Company D will cover our 
left by a combat patrol at 100 paces. 

Lines will deploy without interval, men grasping ai*ms of those 
on their left. Fix bayonets. Place white bands on left arms. Ad- 
vance slowly and quietly. At my order to charge, the men will cheer 
and assault. 

I will march in the center of the square. All four captains 
will each establish a close chain of connecting files with me for the 
verbal transmission of orders. Fonn up and then await my order 
to advance. 



THE OFFENSIVE 61 

Formation 1st Battalion 

Scouts 
oooo oooo 

Flank Patrol oooo B A 



o 







Capt. Capt. 









X X 


c 






X X 









X X 


o 






Major 
X X 
X X 




D 


Capt. 


. C Capt. 



As soon as the battalion had formed up, the major 
sent his adjutant to report the fact of its readiness to the 
colonel. When the adjutant returned with the colonel's 
order to advance, the major passed a low, Forivard, March, 
by the connecting files to the four captains, and the care- 
fully linked battalion moved slowly forward. As it ad- 
vanced, the scouts ahead, from time to time, sent individuals 
back to report; finally with word that the enemy seemed 
to be in strength just west of the shallow stream. The 
advance quietly continued till the enemy opened fire; then 
the major shouted Charge, and the battalion cheered and 
closed. 

The attack was only momentarily successful. Greatly 
superior hostile forces immediately closed in a counter at- 
tack about the two battalions, which were thrown back 
east of the stream with heavy loss and in great disorder. 
The 3d Battalion had started to advance, when the sounds 
across the stream made it evident that doing so would 
only involve the last battalion in defeat. From the re- 
ports of the returning officers, the colonel decided that 
the enemy was much too strong to be handled by the one 
Blue regiment. The enemy did not pursue the beaten bat- 
talions. The colonel directed the major of the 3d Battalion : 

You will secure this rise (Schild), and will strongly patrol 
towards Whitehall. 

I shall take the remainder of the Regiment to the Grawmer 
farm, 500 yards to the southeast. 

The colonel at once wrote and forwarded the following 
report : 



62 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

9th Inf. House 500 yds. N. w. grawmer, 
2 Sept., 15, 8-30 P. M. 
General D: 

West side alloway held by strong hostile forces. I attacked 
with two battalions towards WHITEHALL s. H., but was repulsed at 
ALLOWAY with heavy loss. Shall reorganize beaten bns. at grawmee 
farm. Remaining bn. outposts schild crest, west of alloway, and 
patrols towards Whitehall. 

K, 
Col. 



BIVOUAC DURING COMBAT 



Division Headquarters to 9-00 1*. M. 

The division commander, with his chief of staff, aids, 
and escort, rode via Pleasant Hill S.H. to knoll 647. No- 
ting that the work of reorganizing the badly mixed regi- 
ments was going rapidly and systematically ahead under 
the direction of the brigade and regimental officers, and that 
pursuit had been ordered, General A abstained from any 
interference therewith. Sending word to the 1st and 3d 
Brigades of his temporary location, he moved back to Plea- 
sant Hill S. H. This schoolhouse was immediately connect- 
ed by telephone with the headquarters building in Littles- 
town. There, the General waited quietly for reports from 
the 9th Infantry, the 2d Brigade, and the 1st Cavalry. 

About 8-00 o'clock, he directed the artillery brigadier: 

Leave one battalion in readiness south of knoll 627, to report g_Q0 p j^ 
to and support the 3d Brigade. The remainder of the artillery will 
camp southeast of Littlestown. 

The following report was turned over to the signal 
troops for transmission: 

1st Div., 

PLEASANT HILL S. H. 

2 Sept., 15, 8-00 P. M. 
C. of S,, Army; 

Have carried hostile trenches east of alloway. Am pursuing 
towards Whitehall. 

A, 
Maj. Gen. 
By telephone and telegraph. 

The facts stated in the above message had previously, 
however, been reported by an intelligence officer from army 
headquarters with the 1st Division. ^'^^^ ^- ^ 

By 8-00 o'clock, the firing to the westward had greatly 
diminished in volume. Artillery fire had practically ceased, 
and that of rifles was rapidly dying away. The following 
was received : 

1st Field Army, 

KINGSDALE, i, - 

2 Sept., 15, 7-30 P. M. 7-30 P. M. 
(Jen. A.: 

2d and 3d Divs, yet obtained no decision. Ammunition refilling 

63 



8-40 P. M. 



64 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

point, 1st Div. union mills; supply refilling point, and evacuation 

point, WESTMINSTER. 

Army Hq. tonight, kingsdale. 

By command, Gen. X: 
L, 
C. of S. 

By 8-40 P. M., the message of Colonel K, reporting the 
stoppage of the 9th Infantry's pursuit towards Whitehall, 
and the following by telephone, have come in : 



2d Brig.. 
felty s. h. 
2 Sept., 15, 8-30 P. M. 
C. of S.: 

This Brig., with 1st Cav., has reached G. martz — felty' s. h. — 
Crossroads 633. Enemy strongly holds line Whitehall s. h. — geb- 
8-oO p. M. HARDT — crossroads 601. Have halted to reorganize. 

C, 
Brig. Gen. 

The division has made a long march and fought a hard 
fight. Every one of its regiments has been engaged. Its 
disorganization and fatigue are very great. Enough has 
been learned of the enemy to know that nothing less than 
an advance of the whole division would have much chance 
of gaining further ground. Such an advance is imprac- 
ticable, certainly for some hours, until the men have eaten 
and had some rest. And then an advance would have all 
of the dangers and disadvantages inherent in a night at- 
tack. The enemy's flank has been broken ; and the general 
reserves that he has evidently thrown in to stop the envelop- 
ing division, will probably be missed in front of the 2d and 
3d divisions tomorrow. The simultaneous attack of the 
whole Blue army tomorrow morning should bring the com- 
bat to a successful issue. Tonight, however, the Red's every 
movement must be watched by Blue patrols, and an im- 
mediate attack made if the enemy starts to retreat. Gen- 
eral A's orders follow : 

' ' ^ 1st Div., 

PLEASANT HILL S. H. 

2 Sept., 15, 8-50 P. M. 
Field Orders, 
No. 5. 

Gettysburg 3-inch. 

1. Our troops have driven the enemy to the line Whitehall s. 
8-50 P. M. jj, — GEBHAKDT farm — crossroads 601. 

2. The Division will bivouac. 

3. (a) 1st Brig., east and west of 558W. 



THE OFFENSIVE 65 

(b) 2d Brig., on the line crossroads 633 — felty s. h. It 
will secure fi'om A. rifle to roadfork 610, 1,100 yds. southeast of 
WHITEHALL s. H. Patrol vigorously to SQUARE corner. 

(c) 3d Brig., on the line knoll 647 — grawmer. It will se- 
cure from roadfork 610 to stream junction 540 on alloway. Vigor- 
ous patrolling to ST. luke's church. 

(d) 1st Cav., near Washington meeting house. Patrols 
to line bonneauville — hunterstown. 

(e) Art. Brig., leaving one bn. with 3d Brig., will camp 
southeast of littlestown. Sig. Bn. is attached to art. for camping. 

(f) Engrs. in littlestown. Provide security for camp of 
Art. and for LITTLESTOWN. 

4. Reserve ration. 

5. Hq. after 9-00 P. M. at K house, littlestown. 

A, 
Maj. Gen. 

Copies by messenger to 1st, 3d, and Art. brigades, and 
Bn. Engrs. Chief of Staff personally telephones extracts 
to commanding officers, 2d Brigade and 1st Cav. At same 
time the chief of staff directs 2d Brig, and 1st Cav. to send 
to Littlestown for copies. Read to C. O. Sig. Bn. 

1st Div., 
pleasant hill s. h. 
2 Sept., 15, 9-00 P. M. 
Orders, 
No. 4. 

1. Reserve ration. 

2. One day's rations and forage of field train will join troops 
via littlestown. These wagons will again be south of littlestown 

— LEFEVRE by 4-00 A. M. 9-00 P. M. 

3. Refilling point for ammunition, union mills. 

4. Supply, WESTMINSTER. 

5. Evacuate wounded and prisoners to Westminster. 

6. Trains (less released) camp at union mills. 

By command, Gen. A.: 

X, 
C. of S. 

Copies by messenger to 1st, 3d, and Art. Brigades; 
Engr. & Sig. Bns. ; copies to officers detailed to receive from 
2d Brig, and 1st Cav. ; by motorcycle to comdr. trains. Co- 
pies handed to chief surgeon and chief quartermaster. 



3rd Brigade 



As soon as the enemy no longer presented targets to 
the 7th and 8th regiments, the men of which were badly in- 
termixed with those of the 1st Brigade and 4th Infantry, 
the brigade commander sent aids to notify the command- 



66 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

ing officers of the 7th and 8th Regiments : 

The 8th Infantry will assemble at the Grawmer farmhouse. The 
7th Infantry, on knoll 647. 

Meantime the 9th Infantry was continuing its steady 
advance to the northwest. Upon receipt of the division 
order for bivouacking. General D issued the following: 

3d Brig., 
Knoll 627, 
2 Sept., 15, 9-10 P. M. 
F. O. 
No. 4. 

1. The enemy has been driven to the line Whitehall s. h. — 
GEBHARDT farm — crosssroads 601. 

The division bivouacs^ 2d Brig, on the line felty s. h. — cross- 
roads 633, 1st Brig, at 558W. 

2. This Brigade will bivouac: 

3. (a) 1st Bn. 1st L, A., on knoll 627. 

(b) 7th Inf., on knoll 647. 

(c) 8th Inf., about roadfork 598. 

(d) 9th Inf., at grawmer farm. It will outpost the schild 
rise from roadfork 610 to stream junction 540 on the alloway, and 
will patrol vigorously to ST. hike's church. 

(x) Fires will be carefully screened. 

4. Reserve rations. One day's rations and forage will join 
troops via littlestown. 

5. Brig. Hq. at roadfork 598. 

D, 
Brig. Gen. 

Copies to officers detailed to receive. 

The three regiments proceeded to make themselves as 
comfortable as possible in the vicinities assigned them. 
They were thankful that the weather was mild, for without 
wagons they had no adequate means of bringing up their 
packs, now three and a half miles to the southeast. Some 
of the regiments managed to impress sufficient wagons, 
but most civilian wagons were already in the hands of the 
sanitary service. Each regiment had parties searching the 
line of advance for wounded, and collecting into the dress- 
ing stations those found. 



Ammunition Service 



By the attack order of the division, roadfork 629 and 
crossroad 733 were designated as ammunition distributing 
stations. By the chief of staff's message, the ammunition 



THE OFFENSIVE 67 

train was released and ordered up to roadfork 727, a mile 
and a half northwest of Silver Run village. There it was 
met by a messenger from the artillery brigadier, directing 
the establishment of the distributing stations. The com- 
mander of the train sent forward the 1st Company to 629 
and 733, immediately unloaded the 2d Company at 727, and, 
leaving a few men with the ammunition, started the com- 
pany back towards Westminster to refill. By 5-00 o'clock 
the 1st Company was at the two stations ready to transfer 
its ammunition. It found empty artillerj- caissons at each 
station. Also the empty combat trains of the 1st Brigade 
were waiting at 629, and those of the 2d Brigade and 1st 
Cavalry at 733. As fast as emptied, the wagons of sec- 
tions of the 1st Company went back, those from 733 by road- 
fork 768, to refill from the unloaded ammunition of the 2d 
Company. As soon as the combat wagons of the 3d Brig- 
ade were refilled, the 1st Ammunition Company unloaded 
at the two stations everything remaining, and by 7-00 
o'clock was also enroute for Union Mills. The 2d Company 
met an ammunition column at Mt. Pleasant, refilled there- 
from, and was at the distributing stations, 629 and 733, by 
midnight. The 1st Company refilled at Union Mills from 
the ammunition column, and was in reserve at 727 by 2-00 
in the morning. 

After refilling, the grouped combat wagons of the 1st 
Brigade proceeded, under cover west of Littlestown, to the 
drawhead south of Ash Grove S. H. Thence an agent was 
sent bj^ each regimental train to locate regimental head- 
quarters, learn of the ammunition status thereat, and re- 
port the location of the wagons. At dusk they were con- 
ducted by regiment to their organizations. The grouped 
trains of the 2d Brigade and of the 1st Cavalry passed Le- 
fevre about 7-30 P. M. Regimental representatives went 
ahead to locate their organizations ; then returning, conduct- 
ed their wagons to the regiments by the Christ S. H. — Val- 
ley Grove S. H. road. The trains of the 3d Brigade moved 
forward from 733 at dusk via crossroads 602 and Pleasant 
Hill S. H. 

The belts of all men of the infanti-y and cavalry were 
lilled as soon as the combat wagons rejoined. 



(58 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

The wagons so emptied were immediately started for 
their proper distributing station to refill and rejoin. By 
4-00 A. M., they were all back with their regiments and full. 

Supply — Forage and Rations 

Upon receipt of the division order, about 9-30 P. M., 
the train commander sent up to Littlestown one ration sec- 
tion of the field trains. The wagons reached Littlestown 
at 12-30 A. M. There they were met by representatives 
from each of the regiments and conducted to their organi- 
zations; one day's reserve ration for the men, one day's 
forage for the mounts and for the mules of the machine 
guns and combat train, were unloaded. The remainder of 
the field wagons stayed with the division trains at Union 
Mills, Although the ration sections were unloaded with 
the greatest expedition, it was nearly 4-00 o'clock before the 
last section returned to the south of the Lefevre — Littles- 
town line. They were then assembled, in accordance with 
instructions of the night before, at crossroads 689, and 
marched as a unit to Union Mills. As soon as the refilling 
station was designated, the 1st Section of the division sup- 
ply train unloaded at Union Mills to refill the field wagons, 
and its empties started back to refill at Westminster. 

Sanitary Service 

The 1st Ambulance Company, which had been in the 
advance guard, attended to the wounded of the morning's 
engagement, assembling them in the houses and barns near 
629 and 733. By 2-00 o'clock it had also established the 
slightly wounded station at knoll 726. It then began to 
requisition and prepare transportation for evacuating the 
Avounded, already gathered and to be expected, at the slight- 
ly wounded station. The 2d, 3d, and 4th Ambulance Com- 
panies and 1st F. Hosp; Co. began to park at 4-00 o'clock in 
the fields south of knoll 766. They proceeded at once to 
assemble civilian transportation from the country as far 
east as the Conewago, remaining otherwise in readiness at 
783 until sunset (6-30). ' 



THE OFFENSIVE 69 

The following message was sent upon the recommenda- 
tion of the chief surgeon : 

1st Div., 

LITTLESTOWN, 
2 Sept., 15, 4-00 P. M. 
Comdr. Trains: 

Release remaining field hospitals and order to littlestown. 

By command, Gen. A: 
X. 

C. of S. 
By motorcycle messenger. 

At sunset all of the ambulance companies started to 
gain ground towards the troops. The 1st Company march- 
ed via Littlestown towards Ash Grove S. H., turning over 
its requisitioned wagons and slightly wounded station to 
the 1st Hospital Company. The 3 ambulance companies 
near 733 marched towards Lefevre. Enroute, the 1st Am- 
bulance Company received orders to establish a dressing sta- 
tion near roadfork 564; the 2d Company to establish one 
midway between Pleasant Hill S. H. and roadfork 598 ; the 
3d Company, west of the A. J. Bair farmhouse; and the 
4th, at the farmhouses 300 yards southwest of Washington 
Meeting House. 

Orders for these movements were issued by the chief 
surgeon, in each case after reference to, and approval by, 
the chief of staff. 

The transportation of the 1st Field Hospital started 
also about sunset for Littlestown. Part of its personnel 
had been therein since 4-30 P. M., for the purpose of pre- 
paring suitable buildings for the great number of wounded 
to be handled; requisitioning labor, supplies, and vehicles 
of all sorts; and preparing the last named for the trans- 
portation of wounded to the rear. In this work of pre- 
paration, the 2d, 3d, and 4th Companies joined about 6-30 ; 
and, in requisitioning transportation as soon as the enemy's 
trenches were carried, the hospitals were assisted by one of 
the pioneer companies, detailed for that duty at the re- 
quest of the chief surgeon. 

Aid stations of all the first line regiments had been at 
work since 4-00 o'clock. Bands in all these organizations 
were assisting in collecting into them the wounded. As 



4-00 p. M. 



70 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

soon as dressing stations were established, wounded began 
to be received, were given attention, and the work oi trans- 
portation to Littlestown started. Dependence for this was 
not entirely upon the ambulances. The surrounding areas 
were systematically searched for country wagons, and 
everything located was impressed. 

Each regiment, in addition to its band, sent detachments 
to search its area of advance and gather into the nearest 
station all wounded found. 

By midnight, it was evident that the division had suf- 
fered between two and three thousand casualties. Several 
hundred wounded had by that time reached Littlestown. 

Trains, Military Police 

After the Ammunition Train and 1st Field Hospital 
had been released, the commander of the trains had under 
his control during the greater part of the day: the field 
trains, which remained in the camp of last night at Union 
Mills ; the supply train, which he held during the day at Mt. 
Pleasant; and the engineer train and 3 field hospitals, 
which he sent up to Union Mills. 

The field trains were in brigade parks, each in its 
camp of last night, and ready to move promptly, north or 
south. To facilitate a rapid movement to the south, if 
such became necessary, Colonel K caused representatives 
of the 1st and 2d Brigades' and 1st Cavalry to reconnoiter 
the road to the south by, and east of. Pleasant Valley, with 
a view to sending their trains by that route, while the re- 
mainder of the field trains were using the Baltimore Turn- 
pike. 

The hospitals and engineer train were assembled off 
the road just north of Union Mills. 

The service detachments with each brigade train : quar- 
termaster sergeant, cooks, clerk, artificer, were held in one 
body at their several parks, except that Colonel K detailed 
6 cossack posts from their numbers to take station on the 
four hills north and northeast of Union Mills, between the 
roadfork northwest of Union Mills, and at B. M. 545 to 
the southeast. 



THE OFFENSIVE 71 

The supply train was also in park off the road at Mt. 
Pleasant, ready to move immediately in either direction. 
One platoon of cavalry and 2 platoons of infantry were at 
Mt. Pleasant. The infantry outposted the park; the cav- 
alry patrolled the roads east and west. 

The train commander had at Union Mills 1 platoon of 
cavalry, which patrolled the roads from Union Mills to the 
northwest, north, and northeast; both as a means of se- 
curity and to obtain information about the routes over which 
the trains would probably have to move later. 

Troop A, less these two platoons, and Company A, 9th 
Infantry, less two platoons, were sent on to Littlestown to 
take up the duties of military police with the division. 

Colonel K remained at Union Mills. 

Enroute to Littlestown, the company of infantry drop- 
ped a couple of squads near 727 to secure the ammunition 
company thereat. It arrived at Littlestown about 5-20 P. 
M., and immediately posted sentries about the town to 
preserve order both among civilians and soldiers, to arrest 
stragglers, to direct wounded and other detached men, to 
look out for and prevent fires and to receive Red prisoners. 
The cavalry, preceding the infantry by an hour and a half, 
immediately placed patrols on the Baltimore Pike from 
Littlestown to the Alloway, and northeast of the town to 
Christ S. H. South of town they patrolled the roads for a 
couple of miles. All stragglers were returned to their 
regiments, and order was required among the many wagons. 

By 7-20, so many prisoners were being received that 
the infantry and cavalry of the military police were no 
longer sufficient. Report of this fact by telephone to the 
chief of staff resulted in the order below : 

1st Div., 

PLEASANT HILL S. H., 

2 Sept., 15, 7-30 P. M. 
Maj. G: 

You will take over duties, commanding oflBcer, littlestown. 
Troops: Your Bn. Engi-s. and M. P. now thereat. Comply with any 
instructions received from Lt. Col. K (C. O., M. P.) Provide se- 
curity for artillery camp as well as town. 

By command, Maj. Gen. A: 
X, 
C. of S. 



72 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

By 9-00 o'clock nearly 500 Red prisoners had been re- 
ceived. The engineers then took over the entire duties of 
military' police about Littlestown. Patrols from the mount- 
ed sections relieved the cavalry and kept a continuous patrol- 
ling : on the Baltimore Pike to the northwest, and from 573 
north to roadfork 564 ; via Pleasant Hill S. H. ; via cross- 
roads 602 to roadfork 613; by Lefevre to Washington Meet- 
ing House; and for two miles southeast of Littlestown on 
the Baltimore Pike. Particular attention was paid to the 
return of stragglers and the maintenance of order among 
the many trains now using the roads. For this purpose an 
officer was constantly on duty at the cross street in Littles- 
town. 

The infantry and cavalry, convoying the prisoners, 
started the march back, reaching Union Mills at 12-30 A. 
M. Starting again at 8-00 A. M., the march was continued 
to Westminister, where the prisoners were turned over to 
the line of communications. 



Part II On the Defensive 



Situation I 

(Captain Fiske) 

A Blue army, of one cavalry and five infantry divisions, 
is concentrating on Gettysburg from the west to oppose a 
European invading army, based on Baltimore. 

The 1st and 2d Divisions are passing the mountains 
by the Waynesboro Turnpike, the 3d, 4th, and 5th, by the 
Chambersburg Road ; and the cavalry division, by the Ship- 
penburg Road. The 1st Division camped for the night of 
March 16-17 between Fairplay and Emmitsburg; the 2d, 
near Fairfield. 



Situation II 

DIVISIONAL CAVALRY 

(Captain Eltinge) 
(Use Geological Survey Map) 

1st Cavalry, 1st Div., (Colonel F) on the evening of 
March 16th : 

Troop B is with the advance guard of the division. 

Troop A is with the trains of the division. 

At 5-00 P. M., the regiment is distributed as follows : 5-00 p. m. 

Field and combat trains and Band at Bridgeport. 

Regiment, less 1st Sq., at woods f mile northwest of 
Oregon School, accompanied by one pack radio section. 

Troop C at Kingsdale, having been driven back from 
Pleasant Grove School by superior hostile cavalry, but pur- 
sued only by patrols. 

Troop D at bridge ^} mile east of Oregon School, having 
been driven back from Frisselburg, through Tyrone, by su- 
perior hostile cavalry. The enemy here has not attempted 
to force the bridge but is still in contact, having remained 
inactive for the last 30 minutes. 

Troop C has not reported losses, but Troop D reports 

73 



74 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

8 men killed or missing, and 4 men and 8 horses disabled, 
now with the troop. 

An officer's patrol from each of Troops C and D is still 
out or has been captured. That from Troop D reported by 
telephone from New Windsor at 3-00 P. M., when last 
heard from. 

At 4-30 P. M., when the regiment was approacing its 
present location, two hostile aeroplanes passed overhead 
coming from the direction of Emmitsburg. 

From all sources of information combined. Colonel F 
has learned that hostile cavalry accompanied by artillery 
was approaching Westminster at 1-30 P. M. ; that the tel- 
ephone and telegraph stations at Hanover have not worked 
since 3-30 P. M. ; and that a hostile troop reached Marker's 
Mill at 4-00 P. M., but later disappeared to the southeast. 

Connection with division headquarters has been es- 
tablished by telephone by way of Emmitsburg. Reports 
that the 3d Cav. reached Gettysburg at 4-00 P. M. and was 
reconnoitering toward Hanover have been received. 

Colonel F decides to halt for the night. 

Weather fair, temperature about 45°F. at 5-00 P. M.. 
moon rises at 4-00 A. M. 

Pipe Creek is fordable with difficulty. 

Required : 

(a) Orders, messages, etc., issued from regimental 
headquarters from 5-30 P. M., till 8-00 P. M. ; no new in- 
formation of importance coming in before that time. 

(b) Assume that between 8-00 P. M., and 11-00 P. M., 
it has been learned that the division marches on Gettysburg 
tomorrow, the 1st Cav. to cover the movement; that a hos- 
tile column of cavalry and horse artillery, marching from 
Reistertown toward Westminster on the morning of March 
16th, took two hours for the main column to pass a given 
point, exclusive of several smaller bodies that had previous- 
ly passed; that a glow indicating numerous camp fires had 
been seen in the general locality of Union Mills; and that 
about 200 hostile cavalrj' passed through Littlestown at 
5-30 P. M., moving northwest. Nothing else of impor- 
tance is learned before 6-00 A. M. 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 75 

Required : 

Orders, messages, etc.. issued from regimental head- 
quarters from 8-00 P. M., till 6-00 A. M. 



Solution 



5-03 P. M. 



5-06 P. M. 



Requirement (a) : 

Colonel F, at 5-00 P. M., verbally to staff (except Q. M.) 
and commanding officer Machine Gun Troop: 

We will halt for the night in the woods just south of Taney- 
town. I will now send forward one troop of the 3d Squadron to join 5-00 p, M. 
Troop D. The surgeon will arrange to have the four wounded now 
with Troop D brought in by requisitioned wagons. The veterinarian 
will attend the injured horses of Troop D. Trains will be brought 
up to the troops. 

Colonel F, at 5-03 P. M.. verbally to adjutant: 
Have squadron and troop commanders assembled here at once. 

Colonel F, at 5-06 P. M., verbally to adjutant : 

Pi'epare report to division headquarters. 

Colonel F, at 5-10 P. M., verbally to commanding offi- 
cer Troop M (in presence of commanding officer, 3d Squad- 
ron) : 

Superior hostile cavalry, with artillery, is in the vicinity 
of Westminster. Both our contact troops have been driven back. 
Troop C is now at Kingsdale, five miles north of here, and Troop 
D is three-fourths of a mile southeast of here on this road. The 
Regiment will halt for the night at the woods just south of Taney- 5-10 p. m. 
towTi. Troop M will move to join Troop D, and let its presence at 
the crossroads a half mile southeast of here be noticed by the enemy. 
The bridge held by Troop D will then be disabled, and a platoon of 
Troop M will replace Troop D at the bridge. By camp fires and by 
other means you can think of, lead the enemy to believe the two 
troops have halted for the night near the crossroads. After dark 
the two troops will silently withdraw, leaving the platoon of Troop M 
concealed in rear of the camp fires and with a post at the bridge. 
The surgeon will arrange for the removal of Troop D's wounded 
and the veterinai-ian will attend to its horses. At once send two 
men of each troop back by this road until they encounter a post, which 
I will establish later, that will direct them to me. I am going to 
look over the site for the bivouac. 

Adjutant, at 5-10 P. M., to Quartermaster, 1st Cavalry, 5-10 f- m. 
by telephone : 

Trains will march at once to Taneytown. Ride ahead yourself 
for further orders. There will be a guide posted at the main cross- 
roads in Tanevtown. 



76 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Colonel F, at 5-14 P. M., to division headquarters by 
5-14 p. M. radio (message prepared by adjutant) : 

My No. 5 reported Troop C in contact with the enemy at Plea- 
sant GROVE SCHOOL and Troop D in contact at TYRONE. Both troops 
driven back by superior hostile cavalry. Reports indicate hostile 
cavalry with artillery reached Westminster this afternoon. 1st Cav- 
alry halts for night at taneytown, with one troop near kingsdale. 
Messages to taneytown, wire or radio. 

Note : — By previous arrangement names of places are 
sent in code. 

Colonel F, at 5-15 P. M., to assembled troop and squad- 
ron commanders and staff, verbally : 

Superior hostile cavalry, accompanied by artillery, is in the 
vicinity of Westminster. Our contact troops have been driven back. 
5-15 A. M Troop C is now at Kingsdale, five miles north of here, and Troop D 
is about three quarters of a mile down this road (pointing). Troop 
M will join it. The 3d Cavalry is reconnoitering through Gettysburg 
toward Hanover. This Regiment will bivouac for the night in the 
woods just south of Taneytown, but will not leave this point until 
after dark. 

A noncommissioned officer and one man from each organization 
will be sent to report to me here at once, to be used in arranging 
the bivouac. As soon as they report, I will ride to the bivouac. 
Major Q (1st Sq.) and Lieutenant R (Adj. 1st Sq.) will accompany 
me. Troop L will go with me and will be used to establish an outpost 
for the bivouac. 

Lieutenant Colonel G will take command of the Regiment dur- 
ing my absence. The enemy will be allowed to observe the presence 
of the Regiment here. Fires may be built and should be kept up after 
the Regiment withdraws. Two officer's patrols should be sent out 
at once, one by way of Markers Mill, and the other in the direction 
of Union Town. Information of the location and strength of the 
hostile main forces is desired. These patrols should remain out 
while there is a single chance to obtain the desired information. 

I will leave a guide near Taneytown on this road to direct mes- 
sengers to me. 

Colonel F, at 5-30 P. M., to commanding officer, Troop 
3-30 p. M. L (while marching toward Taneytown) : 

Troops L and M under your command will furnish the out- 
post. Troop M will fall back after dark by the road, leaving one 
platoon in contact with the enemy at the bridge two miles southeast 
of Taneytovm. 

Place a strong picket on each of the roads to the north, east, 
and south. They should be about one mile from camp and should 
protect themselves by the use of barricades and entanglements from 
being rushed. Pickets should be largely composed of dismounted 
men. 

Videttes should be stationed well out from each picket. Hostile 
patrols may be expected from any direction. 

It will be an hour or more before the Regiment reaches its 
bivouac, which will be in those woods (pointing). In the meanwhile. 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 77 

small ai'eas will be assigned to each organization for picket lines 
and for cooking. Straw for warmth while the men are resting will 
be provided and left at these areas. Such areas will be assigned to 
your two troops as well as the others, and j^our field wagons will be 
available there till midnight. 

Send a noncommissioned officer and a man or two to join the 
other details from the troops that are to prepare the bivouacs. 
Horses not actually required at the outpost may be left at your picket 
lines if you find it desirable. 

Establish a relay post near Gait to keep up connection wth 
Troop C at Kingsdale. Take charge of the telephone switchboard 
at Taneytown, and post a guide at the main ci'ossroads in that town 
to direct messengers. 

After arranging the bivouac, I will rejoin the Regiment, and 
after dark will march it to those woods. 

Colonel F, now near woods, at 5-37 P. M., to Major Q, 5.37 p_ ^^^ 
Lieutenant R, and staff (except quartermaster) : 

Lieutenant R, take two orderlies with you, locate plenty of 
wood, hay and straw, arrange to have them delivered to camp and be 
ready to assist the quartermaster in making pajTnent for them 
when he arrives. Place one orderly as a guide at the roadfork just 
this side of town to direct messengers to this point. On the arrival 
of the quartermaster you will assist him. Major Q will be in charge 
of the bivouac. 

Colonel F, at 5-39 P. M., to adjutant : 5.39 p j^j 

Troop C will remain on the Kingsdale — Harney road. Send 
medical and veterinarian attendance, rations, and ammunition to the 
troop. Direct reconnaissance by Troop C in the gap between that 
troop and the 3d Cavalry. 

Colonel F, at 5-45 P. M., to Major Q and staff (includ- 
ing quartermaster, who has arrived) : 5.45 p. ^^i. 

Major Q, take these representatives of organizations for mark- 
ers and lay out the bivouac. Picket lines will be on the north face 
of the woods. Bivouacs will be: 3d Squadron on the east face of 
the woods, 2d Squadron south face, and the remainder of the Regi- 
ment west face. The quartermaster will assist you. Arrange for 
wood, straw, and field trains, all to be easily accessible. I will re- 
join the Regiment. 



5-40 P. M. 



The adjutant, at 5-40 P. M., to the surgeon: 

Under the colonel's orders, I am arranging to send a requi- 
sitioned wagon with supplies to Troop C at Kingsdale. How much 
that troop has suffered is not known, but the services of a surgeon 
are probably necessary. The colonel desires you to have medical at- 
tendance ready at the main crossi'oads in Taneytown at 6-30 P. M., 
at which time a wagon loaded with supplies will start from that place 
under escort to go to Troop C. 

Similar orders to veterinarian at 5-41 P. M. ^"^^ ^- ^^• 

The adjutant, at 5-48 P. M., to the quartermaster: 



78 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Troop C is to remain out for the night near Kingsdale, The 
colonel directs that you requisition a wagon and send that troop one 
5-48 P. M. day's oats, one day's rations, and six boxes of rifle ammunition. 

Apply to commanding ofiicer Troop L for an escort and start the 
wagon from the main crossroads in Taneytown at 6-30 P. M. The 
surgeon will have medical and veterinarian attendance for the troop 
meet the wagon at the same time and go with it. 

Adjutant at 5-58 P. M., to commanding officer. Troop 
C (written message by double messengers) : 

Troop D has been pushed back from frizzelburg to near OREGON 
SCHOOL by superior hostile cavalry. The 3d Blue Cavalry has passed 
5-58 P. M. GETTYSBURG and is reconnoitering toward hanover. The colonel es- 
timates at least a hostile cavalry brigade with artillery somewhere in 
the vicinity of Westminster. 

Our Regiment halts for the night at taneytown. 

Your troop will cover the kingsdale — harney road from near 

KINGSDALE. 

Medical and veterinai'ian attendance, rations, oats, and ammu- 
nition will be sent you, arriving about 7-30 P. M. 

Connect with 3d Cavalry by patrols and reconnoiter between your 
troop and the area covered by that regiment. Our outpost will es- 
tablish a relay post just west of GALT. Send important messages by 
that route as hostile patrols may have possession of some telephone 
stations. We have taken charge of the telephone station in taney- 
town and will have an operator constantly on duty. 

At 6-30 p. M., dusk, Colonel F, to regiment : 

Column of fours, 2d Squadron in the lead. Follow me. 

Having led the regiment through Taneytown to the 
stream south of the town, and Major Q having joined Col- 
onel F, when the regiment passed the bivouac. Colonel F, to 
commanding officer, 2d Squadron : 

Water — 2d Squadron to the right. Squadron and troop com- 
manders to report to me. 

Colonel F, at 7-04 P. M., to commanding officer, 3d 
Squadron : 

Water — 3d Squadron to the left. Squadron and troop com- 
manders to report to me. 

Colonel F, at 7-15 P. M., to assembled troop and squad- 
ron commanders and staff: 

There is no change in the situation. The Regiment bivouacs 
around those woods. Major Q will direct organizations to their 
places. 

Troops L and M furnish the outpost. It will guard all roads, by 
which the enemy might approach, at a distance of about one mile from 
the bivouac. 

Straw will be provided for beds for the men. 



'5-30 p. M. 



r-00 p. M. 



7-04 p. M. 



<-ia P. M. 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 79 

Fires for warmth will be permitted, but should consist of many- 
very small fires instead of a few large ones. They should be built 
in the woods so the glow will not be so noticeable. Numbers four 
will have charge of the horses and equipment for their whole four 
and will sleep at the picket lines. The remainder of each organi- 
zation will sleep on their arms at the bivouac. 

The field and combat trains are at the bivouacs. They will be 
available till midnight, at which time they will be ready to march, ac- 
companied by the band. Extra ammunition will be issued before that 
time. 

Troops will be ready to march at 5-15 A. M. Orders will be is- 
sued at 5-00 A. M. 

I will be at the house located in the east edge of the woods. 

Adjutant, at 7-32 P. M., to commanding officer, Troop 
M: 

Your troop reports to commanding officer Troop L for duty as 
outpost. Send Troop D to its bivouac in the west edge of those woods. rj_^2 p. m,. 
The outpost commander is at the crossroads in Taneytown. 

Colonel F, at 7-45 P. M., to division commander by 
telephone : 

I desire to send my field and combat trains to join division 
trains, starting at midnight. ^"^^ ^- **- 

Reply, 'Approved. Orders for tomorrow will be sent you by 
motor. ' 

Colonel F, at 7-55 P. M., to quartermaster : 

Field and combat trains accompanied by the band will march ^' ^' 

at midnight by Bridgeport and Emmitsburg to join the division 
trains. 

Requirement (b) : 

Colonel F, at 9-45 P. M., to staff officer who brought 
division order : 

' Report to the division commander that I contemplate marching 
at daylight in a generally northern direction east of the Monocacy. 
My radio set will be in operation hourly, on the hour. 

Colonel F, at 10-00 P. M., to Lieutenant T (who had 
been summoned by the adjutant) : 

Our division marches tomorrow on Gettysburg. Our Regiment 
will march to Kingsdale and thence northward to cover the division. 
The 3d Cavalry is halted for the night east of Gettysburg on the Han- 
over road. 10-00 P. M. 

Get six selected men from your troop, and at 4-00 A. M. move by 
Longville and Harney to join the 3d Cavalry as information officer. 
Troop C is now west of Kingsdale on the Kingsdale — Harne^ road. 
Hostile patrols may be encountered anywhere on your route. 



9-45_P. M. 



A 



80 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Colonel F, at 11-00 P. M., to division headquarters by 
radio : 

Hostile cavalry, about a division with artillery, halted for the 
11-00 p. M. night near union mills. Hostile contact squadron moved through 
LITTLESTOWN to the northwest at 5-30 P. M. today. 

Note : Colonel F slept from 8-00 P. M., till roused b}^ 
the division staff officer at 9-30 P. M., and now goes to sleep, 
leaving orders to be awakened at 4-30 A. M. 

The adjutant, at 4-45 A. M., written message to com- 
manding officer, Troop C, by double messenger — to be 
relayed : 

4-45 A. >i. The Regiment marches on kingsdale at daylight, by taneytown 

— KINGSDALE road. Your troop will be relieved and join the main body 
as soon as the advance guard passes kingsdale. Keep contact with 
the enemy in your front till Regiment arrives. 

Note : It is assumed that the information of the hos- 
tile cavalry passing through Littlestown came from Troop 
C, so no message has been sent to the troop about that 
matter. 

Adjutant, at 5-10 A. M., to assembled squadron and 
troop commanders and staff. (Dictated from copy by ad- 
jutant, Colonel F being present). 



5-10 A. M. 



Field Orders, 

No. 7. 

Geological Survey Map. 

Troops 

(a) Advance Guard: 

Major S 
2d Sq. (less 2 trs.) 

(b) Main Body — in order 

of march: 
3d Sq. 

1st. Sq. (less 3 trs.) 
M. G. Tr. 

(c) Right Flank Guard: 

Capt. K. 
Trs. G and H. 

(d) Special Detachment: 

Capt. Y. 
Tr. C. 

(e) Signal Troops: 



1st Cavalry, 
taneytown, 
17. March, 15, 5-10 A. M. 

1. A hostile cavalry division, with ar- 
tillery, halted last night near union 
mills. 

About two hostile troops were north- 
west of littlestown last evening and 
have not since been located. 

Our division marches on GETTYSBURG 
today. 

2. This Regiment marches north, keep- 
ing east of the monocacy, to cover the 
movements of the division. 

3. (a) The Advance Guard will march 
at 5-15 A. M. by the taneytown — kings- 
dale road, provisionally on kingsdale. 
Gait four miles per hour. 

(b) The Main Body will follow the ad- 
vance guard at 1,000 yards. 

(c) The Flank Guard will move by 
roads one to two miles east of the route 
of the main body, and will reconnoiter 
towards the Gettysburg — Baltimore 
turnpike. 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 81 

Lieut. Z. (d) Troop C will remain in the vi- 

1 radio sect. cinity of kingsdale till relieved by the 

advance guard, when it will join its 
squadron. 

(e) The radio section will be at the head of the main body 
and will be in operation hourly, on the hour. 

(x) The outpost will be relieved at once and will join the 3d 
Squadron. 

4. Field and combat trains have already joined the division 
trains. 

5. I will be at the head of the main body. 

F, 
Col. 

Colonel F, at 5-15 A. M., to division commander, by 

radio : 

1st Cavalry marches at 5-15 A. M. in accordance with previous ^"^^ '^' '^• 
arrangement. Nothing new learned of the enemy. This station will 
be in operation again at 6-00 A. M. 



Situation III 
1st Cavalry^ Continued — Morning of March 17th 

(Use 3-inch map). 

The Regiment halted about 2 miles north of Taneytown 
to water, and again at crossroads 538 (700 yards northwest 
of Gait) to wait for reports. 

By 7-00 A. M., the following information has been re- 
ceived : 

At daylight the 3d Cavalry attacked and utterly routed 
about 2 hostile troops, at a point about 3 miles northwest of 
Littlestown. The remnants of this hostile force retreated 
through Littlestown and were not pursued as the 3d Cav- 
alry continued on toward Hanover. 

The 2d Cavalry (cavalry of 2d Div.) , less one squadron, 7-00 a. m. 
has marched to join the cavalry division north of Gettys- 
burg. 

The lieutenant, who went out last night by way of 
Marker's Mill (Big Pipe Creek Mill on some maps), reports 
that he believes the hostile cavalry and artillery at Union 
Mills started out in two columns this morning, one column 
going toward Hanover and the other toward Littlestown. 
He is not certain of this as his hiding place was discovered, 
and he had great difficulty in escaping, only succeeding in 
doing so by the assistance of Captain K's flank guard, 
which, at 6-45 A. M., was near 626 (1^ miles east of Gait). 



A 



82 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

At 7-10 A.M., the regiment is disposed as follows : 

Troop C last reported at roadfork west of Kingsdale, 
in contact with hostile patrols. 
7-10 A. M. Colonel F has temporarily joined the support of the ad- 

vance guard, which is at the small nose 400 yards south of 
the point where the Taneytown — Kingsdale road crosses 
Piney Creek. 

Head of main body 1,200 yards in rear of support of 
advance guard. 

One platoon from the advance guard, which has been 
on the road to the southeast of Gait, is now on the farm road 
that branches off between the support and the main body, 
hurrying to rejoin the advance guard. 

At this time Sergeant U, Troop H, reaches Colonel F 
with the following verbal message : 

Captain K's compliments. He is about li miles dowTi that road 
(Piney Creek village— 626 road). He is being attacked by about a 
squadron and will soon be forced back along that road (same road). 
He requests instructions. 

Retfuired : 

Orders and messages issued by regimental headquarters 
to de^l wnth this situation. 



Solution 



Colonel F issued the following t)rders : 
Colonel F, at 7-11 A. M., to advance guard commander, 
who heard Sergeant U's report : 

Move your advance guard at a gallop and conceal it in those 
7-11 A. M. woods (about l^ mile north of the point where they then were). 

I will instruct Captain K to fall back past you and try to lead 
the enemy to follow. The Regiment will form up just west of this 
nose (where Colonel F then was) where I shall be. Reconnaissance 
to the north to prevent a surprise from that direction. Move out. 

Colonel F, at 7-12 A. M., to adjutant : 

Take Sergeant U with you. Go to Captain K and instruct him 
to fall back hurriedly thi*ough Piney Creek past where the advance 
7-12 A. M. guard is ordered to conceal itself. You will stay with Captain K 
and serve as his guide. 

While galloping back toward the head of the main 
body. Colonel F met the lieutenant with the platoon which 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 83 

was trying to rejoin the advance guard. 

Colonel F, at 7-15 A. M., to the platoon commander : 

The Regiment is going to attempt an ambush of a hostile squad- 
ron from a position this side of that nose (pointing). ^-1^ '^- ^■ 

Hun-y back in the direction from which you just came, keep 
off hostile patrols and give me timely warning of any hostile advance 
in force from that direction. 

Colonel F, at 7-22 A. M., to troop and squadron com- 
manders of the main body, which is now on the road just 
behind the nose before mentioned : 

Captain K's two troops have been ordered to reti"eat rapidly 
by a road that runs into the one we are on by way of the valley, just 
beyond that nose. I hope to induce a hostile squadron to pursue him 
impetuously. 

The advance guard is concealed in the woods about ^ -j mile north 
of here. r^_22 -^ M. 

Major A (1st Sq.) will take Troop D and the M. G. Troop and 
remain concealed dismounted about 200 yards south of this point, 
and just this side of the nose. 

Major C (3d Sq.) will have the fences along this road and 
to the north cut in several places, and will hold his squadron here 
in readiness to act mounted. 

No one of the command is to be allowed to go where he can be 
seen from the other side of the. ridge, except a single observer from 
Major A's force. 

I will be near this i-oad. Move to your places. 



Situation IV 



Colonel F went to a place from which he could just see 
over the ridge and watched alone, with his staif and his 
horse behind the ridge. 

At 7-30 A. M., after all parts of the regiment were in 
position, Captain K's troops retreated at a run as directed, 
followed by a hostile troop at about 200 yards. This hos- 
tile troop was followed about 800 yards further to the rear 
by other mounted troops, the number of which could not '^'^^^ ^ **■ 
be told, as only part of the column was visible to Colonel 
F when the leading hostile troop reached the bridge I mile 
north of him. It was stopped by fire from part of the ad- 
vance guard, and charged by about }j Troop E in column of 
fours. 

Refpiired : 

(a) Orders of Colonel F to meet this situation. 



84 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

(b) Assuming that the action of the regiment is suc- 
cessful, give Colonel F's outline of what he intends to do 
next, as he expresses it to his staff. 

(c) Give the surgeon's recommendation for the sani- 
tary arrangements to meet the situation as outlined under 
(b). 



Solution 



(a) Colonel F watched till he thought the larger pur- 
suing force had advanced as far as it would come, then 

7-30 A. M. ^^ '^~^^ ^- ^•' signalled to Major C, 

Forward, Gallop. 

As major C, at the head of his squadron, approached. 
Colonel F, called: 

Two troops to attack down the road, mounted. Do not pursue 
over a mile. Tw^o troops to halt here in reserve. I will halt your 
two rear troops. 

If Major A has not already opened fire, he is signalled 
to do so, or Colonel F calls an order to that effect. 

As the 3d troop in column of Major C's squadron ar- 
rives. Colonel F signals halt to the two rear troops. 

(b) Assuming that the leading hostile troop was en- 
tirely killed or captured; and that the fire from Major A's 
party caused considerable loss to the head of the larger hos- 
tile force, which retreated hastily, pursued by two troops 
under Major C, the following shows Colonel F's intentions: 

Colonel F, at 7-40 A. M., to his staff: 

The Regiment w^ill be assembled as soon as possible, and our 

7-30 A. M. march will be continued. Lieutenant X and i Troop E will take 

charge of the prisoners and captured horses and march them, by way 

of Harney, to the rear of the division, and turn them over to the 

military police. 

The surgeon will make the necessary sanitary arrangements, 
counting on about 30 minutes before we are again ready to move. 

The veterinarian will make similar arrangements for the in- 
jured horses, replacing any of our injured horses with sound captured 
animals. 

The regimental staff will arrange these details in my name, 
while I post covering detachments and reassemble the Regiment, 

The surgeon, at 7-42 A. M., to Colonel F: 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 85 

I recommend that a few troopers be sent at once to locate two 
or three vehicles in which some of the wounded can be sent back under 
charge of Lieutenant X, and that one troop be dismounted at once to 
serve temporarily as beai*ers. The medical personnel will be fully 
occupied in giving first aid and classifying the wounded. 

I also recommend that a line officer be directed to summon a '^-42 A. >£. 
civilian physician from Taneytown, and to get together a few civilians 
to assist in the care of the wounded. Lieutenant T (Medical Corps) 
and three members of the Hospital Corps should be left behind in 
charge of the wounded, but ordered to rejoin as soon as they have done 
emergency work and turned the wounded over to these civilians. 



i 



ADVANCE GUARD, 1ST DIVISION, 

8-00 to 10-00 A. M. 
Situation V 



( Captain Fiskk ) 



The 1st Division marches, March 17, by the Emmits- 
burg Road towards Gettysburg. 

The 1st Cavalry (less 2 trs.) is reconnoitering via Tan- 
eytown and Westminster. 

The advance guard of the division consists of the 1st 
Brigade, 1st Bn., 2d L. A., Tr. B, 1st Cav., 1 wire plat. Sig., 
and the 1st Amb. Co. The 1st Inf. is the support. At 8-00 
A. M., the head of the reserve is crossing Marsh Creek, 
southwest of Greenmount. Tr. B, (less a platoon with the 
support and one at the head of the reserve) is presumed to 
be southeast of Round Top, reconnoitering to the east. The 
main body of the division follows the advance guard at one 
half mile. 

General B, commanding the advance guard, who is 
riding at the head of the reserve, receives, at 8-00 A. M., the 
following message from the division commander: 

8-00 A. M. The enemy is believed to be advancing with 3 corps and 2 cav- 

alry divisions. His leading troops were a short distance east of the 
line UNION MILLS — HANOVER last night. Our field army will defend 
the line of ROCK creek. The 1st and 2d Divisions occupy the position 
ROUND TOP — BARLOW KNOLL. The remainder of the army's infantr>' 
will be held in reserve. 

The 1st Division will defend the general line of the taneytown 
ROAD from knoll 528 ( 3" map) to powers hill, both inclusive, which 
will be intrenched by the 2d and 3d Brigades today. 

The advance guard will turn east of rock CREEK and cover their 
work. 

Required : 

General B's orders. 

(Time for solution, one and one half hours) 



Solution 

General B's orders: 

Verbally, at 8-03, to the colonel, 2d Infantry : 

8-03 A. M. Turn the column east at road junction 507 and march on Barlow. 

Have your leading company gain a few hundred yards, by increasing 
the gait, to secure the march. 
86 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 87 

In the colonel's presence, to the lieutenant in charge of 
the platoon, Troop B : 

The advance guard turns east. You will precede this column by 
one mile to Barlow, reconnoitering thoroughly three quarters of a 
mile to each flank. Except one company a few hundred yards ahead, 
the infantry will throw out no security detachments until it reaches the 
Ballinger farmhouse. 

At 8-07, to an aid: 

Direct Colonel K (comdg. 1st Inf.) to march east by the road 
half a mile south of Round Top. I will send him written orders iu 8-07 a. m. 
a few minutes. 

Verbally, at 8-12 to the colonel, 2d Infantry: 

The enemy's advance guards were last night a short distance 
east of the line Hanover — Union Mills. His strength is believed to 
be 3 corps and 2 cavalry divisions. 

Our 1st and 2d Divisions will defend the line Round Top — Bar- 
low Knoll. 

This Advance Guard is ordered east of Rock Creek to cover the 
2d and 3d Brigades, which intrench the line Round Top — Powers 
Hill. 

The 1st Infantry will march east by the road one half mile south 
of Round Top. Troop A, now near Round Top, will trot ahead to 
hill 606, a couple of miles south of Two Taverns. 

When the head of the artillery reaches the Ballinger farmhouse, gjg a ^ 
I will halt this column. Your regiment (less its last battalion) and the 
platoon of Troop B, now ahead of us, will take over the duties of 
advance guard of the detachment. March via Barlow on the King 
crossroads. When you have completed your extension to the front, 
the main body will follow at 1,000 yards. Connect with the 1st In- 
fantry. 

General A then dismounts and has his adjutant pre- 
pare messages as follows : 

Advance Guard, 
i mile south greenmount, 
17 March, 15, 8-20 A. M. 
Capt. M (C. 0., Tr. B.) : 

The enemy's advance guards were short distances east of the 
line UNION MILLS — HANOVER last night. His strength is 'believed to 
be 3 corps and 2 cavalry divisions. 

Our army defends the line of ROCK CREEK. ^'^^ ^' *^- 

This Advance Guard turns east, to cover the 2d and 3d Brigades, 
which intrench the line round top — powers hill. 

You will trot ahead at once to hill 606, 2 miles south of TWO 
TAVERNS, where you will remain in obsei-vation, reconnoitering to the 
east. 

Messages to king — barlow — ballinger road. 

By command. Brig. Gen. B: 
X. 

Adj. 

By aid with 2 orderlies. 



8S PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Advance Guard, 
h mile s. greenmount, 
17 March, 15, 8-30 A. M. 
CoL K {1st Inf.) ; 

The enemy's advance guards were last night a short distance 
east of the line union mills — hanover. His strength is believed to 
be 3 corps and 2 cavalry divisions. 

Our army defends the line of rock creek. 
8-30 A. M. This Advance Guard is ordered to cover the 2d and 3d Brigades, 

which intrench this afternoon on the line round top — powers hill. 
You will march provisionally on crossroads 491, I mile east of 
rock creek. 

Connect with the remainder of the Advance Guard, which is 
marching via barlow towai-ds the king crossroads. 

By command, Brig. Gen. B: 
X, 
Adj. 
By 2d aid. 

General B then directs the brigade adjutant : 

Stay at roadfork 507 until the column halts. See that all of its 
troops clear the Emmitsburg Road, to prevent interference with the 
main body of the division. As you come forward, inform commanding 
officers of the present situation. I am going to the Ballinger farm- 
house. 



Situation VI 



At 9-30 A. M., the infantry point of the right column 
is south of the Coshun farmhouse on the Barlow — J. Smith 
road. The leading troops of the 1st Infantry were seen 
10 minutes ago passing the Lott farmhouse, about a mile 
9-30 a. m. north of Coshun's. Troop B was then just ahead of the 
1st Infantry. The platoon attached to the 2d Infantry was 
sent ahead from Barlow towards hill 606. No contact with 
the enemy has been reported by any part of General A's 
command. 

Required : 

Any orders General B issues in the next half hour, as- 
suming that no further information of the enemy is received. 
(Time for solution, one and one half hours) 



Solution 

General B's orders : 



V 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 89 

Det., 1st Div., 
Near coshun farmhouse, 
17 March, 15, 9-30 A. M. 
Colonel K (1st Inf.) : 

No reports of hostile contact have yet been received fi^om our 
patrols. 

This Detachment will take stations to screen the work of the 
division. „ „„ 

The 2d Inf., from the vicinity of the King crossroads, will pi-o- ' ^' ^^' 
vide cover south of littles RUN. 

The 3d Inf. and artillery halt near coshun's. 
You will proceed to the ridge east of ST. Mary's rf. church, 
and thence will cover from LITTLES RUN to crossroads 516, on the LOW 
DUTCH ROAU. Connect with the 2d Div. to your left, and 2d Inf. to 
your right. Hostile patrols and detachments will be prevented from 
penetrating our screen. If the enemy advances in strength, this De- 
tachment, at my order, will retire; the 1st Inf. by powers hill, the 
remainder south of round top. 

Messages to D. F. plank farmhouse, with which Sig. Troops 
will connect you by wire. 

Bv command. Brig. Gen. B : 
X, 
Adj. 
By aid with 2 orderlies. 

Verbally, at 9-40 A. M., at roadfork southwest of Co- 
shun's, to the colonels, 2d Infantry and 3d Infantry, Major, 
1st Bn. 2d L. A., commanding officer, signal platoon, and 
commanding officer, ambulance company. 

No reports of hostile contact have yet been received. 

This Detachment will take positions to secure the intrenching of 
the division. 

The 2d Infantry will proceed to the vicinity of the Kings cross- 
roads, whence it will provide cover from Littles Run to one half mile 
south of the Miller — Trustle road. Troop B, with 2 platoons now 
moving on hill 606. two miles south of Two Taverns, is at the dis- q_^q ^ j^^ 
posal of Colonel L (2d Inf.). Reconnaissance towards Whitehall — 
Littlestown — Union Mills. Send Lieutenant N's platoon to the 3d 
Infantry (the platoon originally at the head of reserve). 

The 1st Infantry is marching to the ridge east of St. Mary's 
Church, whence it will provide cover north of Littles Run. 

The 3d Infantry will send one battalion and the platoon of cav- 
alry to knoll 492, a mile and a half southeast of Barlow, to connect 
on its left with the 2d Infantry and cover to the Monocacy. 

Careful connection between all parts of the screen will be maui- 
tained. Hostile patrols and detachments will be prevented from pene- 
trating. Upon a hostile advance in force, this Detachment, at my 
orders, will withdraw; the 1st Infantry by Powers Hill. 

The 3d Infantry (less 1 battalion), the artillei-y, and the am- 
bulance company. Colonel M, commanding, will halt under cover west 
of T. F. Kuns — Coshun. The artillery commander will select posi- 
tions for aiding the withdrawal, in case of need, of the 1st and 2d 
Regiments. 

The signal troops will connect brigade headquarters with the 
infantry regiments. 

Brigade headquarters near the D. F. Plank fannhouse. 



J 



9e PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Situation VII — 2d Infantry 
Required: 

Orders, colonel, 2d Infantry, to comply with the above, 
upon the assumption that no hostile interference develops. 

(Time for solution, one hour) 



Solution 



Colonel L's (2d Inf.) orders: 

Verbally, at 9-50 A. M., near J. Smith roadfork, to 
major, 1st Battalion, and captain. Company D, which com- 
pany, at tail of the support, has been halted : 

No reports of hostile contact have yet been received from our 
patrols. 

General B's detachment takes stations to screen the intrenching 

of the division; the 1st Infantry, from the vicinity of St. Mary's 

Church, provides cover north of Littles Run ; the 3d Infantry sends a 

J. _„ battalion to knoll 492; Troop B is stationed on hill 606; the 3d In- 

° A. M. fantry (less 1 battalion) and the artillery are in reserve near Co- 

shun's. 

The 2d Infantry, Avith its reserve near the King crossroads, will 
cover from Littles Run to half a mile south of the Miller — Trustle 
road. 

The 1st Battalion (less Company D) virill secure the line G. 
Hoffman — Collins farmhouse, northwest of 563, all inclusive. Leave 
your ammunition wagons with the 3d Battalion. 

Company D, from southeast of crossroads 543, will cover from 
G. Hoffman, exclusive, to connect with the battalion of the 3d In- 
fantry. 

I will send a company of the 2d Battalion to the nose a half 
mile north of 563, to continue the screen to Littles Run. 

The entire screen must be closely connected up. Hostile patrols 
and detachments will be prevented from penetrating. But if the 
enemy advances in strength, General B intends to withdraw. 

The remainder of the Regiment takes station near the King 
crossroads. 

Regimental headquarters at C. H. King, with which farmhouse 
j'ou will establish flag communication. 

2d Inf., 
Near j. smith, 
17 March, 15. 9-50 A. M. 
C. O., Tr. B : 

Brigade orders attach your troop to 2d Inf. 

This Regiment takes station near king — D. F. pl.\nk crossroads, 
1st Bn. on line G. hoffman — colons — 563. 
9-60 A. M. ^'^^ "^^^^ remain at knoll 606, patrolling towards Whitehall, 

LITTLESTOWN, UNION MILLS. Prevent hostile patrols observing from 
606. 

Messages to c. h. king fannhouse. 

L, 
Col. 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 91 

By patrol, commanded by adjutant, 2d Battalion, who 
is directed: 

Find Lieutenant N, commanding the cavalry platoon originally 
at head of the reserve. He is probably on hill 606. Direct him to 
report with his platoon to a battalion of the 3d Infantry which Gen- 
eral B has ordered to knoll 492, a mile and a half southeast of Barlow. 

Verbally, at 10-05 A. M., near crossroads 522, to as- 
sembled field officers (except major, 1st Bn.), commanding 
officer, Company E, and commanding officer. Machine Gun 
Company. 

No reports of hostile contact have yet been received from our 
patrols. 

General B's detachment is taking stations to screen the intrench- 
ing of the division; the 1st Infantry, from the vicinity of St. Mary's 
Church, provides cover north of Littles Run. 

The 3d Infantry is sending a battalion to knoll 492; Troop B is 
on hill 606; the 3d Infantry and artillery are west of Coshun— T. F. 
Kuns. Brigade headquarters is at D. F. Plank. 

This Regiment provides cover from Littles Run to one half 
mile south of the Miller — Trustle road. m n- 

The 1st Battalion (less Company D) is assigned the section G. lO-Oo A. M. 
Hoffman — Collins — farmhouse northwest of 563, all inclusive. 

Company D, from the vicinity of crossroads 543, covers from 
G. Hoffman, exclusive, to connect with the battalion of the 3d In- 
fantry at knoll 492. 

Company E will proceed to the nose a half mile north of 563, 
and cover from the farmhouse northwest of 563, exclusive, to Littles 
Run. Connect with the 1st Infantry. 

Hostile patrols and detachments must be prevented from pene- 
trating the screen. 

In case of attack. General B intends to withdraw. 

Establish flag communication with the C. H. King farmhouse. 

The remainder of the Regiment, under Lieutenant Colonel 0, 
will take station under cover west of this timber (in the ravine west 
of King farmhouse). Send a platoon to regimental headquarters at 
C. H. King farmhouse. 

Then Colonel L directs the regimental adjutant : 

Establish headquarters at the C. H. King farmhouse. Get sig- 
nal connection with all parts of the Regiment. I am going to in- 
spect the security arrangements, begining with Company D. 



THE DIVISION— PREPARATION OF A POSITION 

Situation VIII 



Division Headquarters, 7-45 A. M. to 1-00 P. M. 

At 7-45 A. M., March 17, the commander of the 1st 
Division receives the following message from the armj- 
commander, dated Chambersburg, 17 March, 1-00 A. M. : 

Reports indicate enemy moving northwest with 3 corps and 2 
cavalry divisions. His leading troops are short distances east of line 
UNION MILLS — HANOVER tonight. Army will defend line of ROCK 
CREEK. 2d Div. marches today from fairfield to intrench barlow 
KNOLL — POWERS HILL, exclusive. 1st Div. will defend round top — 
POWERS HILL. Remaining divisions in reserve for offensive action 
later. 

Army headquarters cashtown after 10-00 A. M. 

The division commander immediately orders the ad- 
vance guard (Situation V) to turn east across Rock Creek 
to cover the 2d and 3d Brigades while intrenching. The 
1st Cavalrj'- (less 2 trs.) spent the night near Taneytown in 
contact with hostile cavalry. (Situations 1 to 4, inclusive.) 

At 8-00 o'clock, the head of the main body is starting 
across Middle Creek on the Emmitsburg Road. The trains 
are to follow the main body at one. mile. 

Required: 

Orders and actions General A (commanding the 1st 
Division) to include orders for the preparation of the posi- 
tion. 

(Time for solution, two and one quarter hours) 



Solution 

The message from army headquarters was read to the 
staff shortly after its receipt, and an aid sent with the order 
for the advance guard to turn east. 
3-00 A._M. To a second aid: 

Inform brigade and auxiliary commanders of the situation and 
our orders to defend Rock Creek, and that the advance guard has 
been sent across that stream to cover our intrenching. Direct Gen- 
eral C (2d Brigade) to take command of the main body and continue 
the mai*ch on Gettysburg. I am going to ride ahead to the vicinity 
of Round Top. 
92 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 93 

1st Div., 
2 miles N. E. emmitsburg, 

17 March, 15, 8-15 A. M. 
Lt. Col. K: 

Enemy's leading troops were yesterday east of hanover — union 
MILLS. Army defends ROCK creek. Our advance guard has been sent 
east of that stream to cover 2d and 3d Brigades, which intrench g_j^5 ^ j^, 

POWERS HILL — ROUND TOP — KNOLL 528. 

Have engineer train and 1st Am. Co. follow troops without dis- 
tance. 

Turn remainder trains northwest at fairplay and proceed by 
MT. greary s. h. to roadfork 470 on marsh creek. 

Orders will be issued east of round top on taneytown road at 
11-00 A. M. 

By command, Major Gen A: 
X, 
C. of S. 

By messenger. 

General A, accompanied by his staff, General E (Art.), 
Major G (Engrs.), and escorted by a platoon of cavalry, 
then rides via Greenmount and Keckler farm to the Taney- 
town road, reconnoiters the front assigned his division, 
and listens to the recommendations of the officers with him. 

At 9-30 A. M., he sends an aid to meet the column and 
to direct : 

The 2d Brigade (leading) will assemble in the vicinity of cross- 
roads 580; the artillery at the J. Biesecker farm; the 3d Brigade 9-30 A.M. 
near J. A. Wolfe. 

Engineers and engineer train will join the 3d Brigade; signal 
battalion, ambulance companies, and 1st Am. Co. will join the artillery. 

The Division will rest till 1-30 P. M. 

Orders will be issued east of Round Top at 11-00 A. M. 

1st Div., 
round top, 
17 March, 15, 11-00 A. M. 
Field Orders, 
No. 5. 

Gettysburg 3" Map. 

1. The 2d Division is assembling about Gettysburg. Our rein- 
forced 1st Brigade has taken stations on the line ST. mary's RF. 
CHURCH — king crossroads. 

2. This Division will defend the general line of the taneytown 
road. 

3. Sections are assigned as follows: 

(a) 2d Brig., from mrs. buck farmhouse to the house 450 H-OO a. M. 
yards north of E. weikart. 

(b) 3d Brig., from the house 450 yards north of E. weikart 
to include knoll 528. 

(c) The Art. Brig, will prepare positions as follows: 

For guns: one bn. near a. trostle, one battery west of 
knoll 544, 2 btries. near knoll 517, 2 btries. south of 
knoll 547 and west of plum run, one btry. in timber 



94 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

just west of PLUM RUN, north of the 540 — 469 road. 

For howitzers: 2 btries. south of 489 and west of 
PLUM RUN, 1 btry. southwest of round top and east of 

PLUM RUN. 

(d) The entire position of the Division will be strongly in- 
trenched. 

(e) Engr. Bn. will send one company to each of the 2d and 3d 
Brigs., four wagons of the engineer train to the 2d Brig., 
and five to the 3d. The remaining company will estab- 
lish not less than four complete crossings of marsh 
CREEK and WILLOUGHBY RUN, between the RILEY farm- 
house and PITZER s. H. 

(f) Sig. Bn. will connect the brigades, including the 1st, by 
wire with Div. Hq. 

4. Dressing stations on plum run, noi'thwest of little round 
TOP, and west of knoll 528. 

Station for slightly wounded: emmitsburg road west of m. 

BUSHMAN. 

Ammunition distributing stations: Crossroads 580 and J. A. 
WOLFE. 

Trains will park near roadfork 470. Reconnoiter routes west 
to HAGERSTOWN TURNPIKE, and east to the Division. Establish signal 
communication with round top. 

5. Div. Hq. on ROUND top. 

A, 
Maj. Gen. 

Read on eastern slopes of Round Top to assembled 
brigadiers (of 2d, 3d, and Art.), to commanders of engineer 
and signal troops, to representative of trains, and copies 
furnished each. 

The following comment upon a student's solution of the 
preceding situation may be of interest. In that solution, the 
line selected for the division was that of Powers Hill — Geo. 
Spangler — J. Eckenrodes — L. Plank, 

An important part of the solution of most troop leading prob- 
lems is the correct interpretation of orders received. In the problem in 
question, the army commander, as will frequently be the case, con- 
veys his orders in a condensed message. References therein are to 
the strategical (1") map. His general intention as stated is to de- 
fend the line of Rock Creek. The north and south limits of the 
territory assigned each division can be expressed only in most general 
terms and by reference to the localities of the great landmarks; which, 
as they appear somewhat at the desired intervals on the one inch 
map, are Barlow Knoll, Powers Hill, and Round Top. Having in- 
dicated his intention to defend the Rock Creek line, and having 
roughly given the north and south divisions of responsibility, the 
distant army commander must depend upon the division commanders, 
who will have opportunity for personal reconnaissance of the ground, 
to select the best general positions for their firing lines. In doing 
this, the two division commanders must consider the probable deploy- 
ment of the enemy for attacking, pax-ticulai'ly the deployment of the 
hostile artillery; and must take care that the line occupied by each 
division well connects up with, and supports, the line occupied by the 
other division. Hostile artillery in the direction of Wolf Hill would 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 95 

squarely enfilade the line selected in this paper, and perhaps alone 
would make that line untenable. The 2d Division, because obviously 
it cannot go east of Gulp's Hill, must put the firing lines on the east- 
ern slopes of Cemetery Hill, and its right near that hill will rest at 
some convenient point near the Mrs. Brock farmhouse. For the 2d 
Division to rest its right at Mrs. Brock and the 1st Division its left 
on Powers Hill would he to invite disaster. By concerted action, and 
by the exercise of the rather wide discretion properly theirs, the two 
division commanders on the ground must complete the general in- 
structions of the army commander and harmonize his expressed plan 
with the incidents of terrain as actually found. 

To occupy Powers Hill, in literal obedience of this order, would 
hardly be more excusable than to place the firing lines of the division 
on the bank of Rock Creek because the army commander expressed 
his intention of defending the line of that stream; or to place the 
firing line of the division in Gettysburg, if ordered to defend that 
town. 



Situation IX — 3d Brigade 
Required : 

1. Orders, General D (commanding 3d Brigade), for 
assembling at J. A. Wolfe. 

2. Actions and orders, General D, in compliance with 
the division order for preparation of the position. 

(Time for solution, one and three-quartfr hours.) 



Solution 



1. Orders, General D, for assembling at J. A. Wolfe : 
At Greenmount, verbally, at 10-20 A. M., to colonels : 

The division rests till 1-30 P. M. 

The 2d Brigade at crossroads 580. 

The artillery at J. Biesecker farm. 

This Brigade, with the engineers attached, near the J. A. Wolfe 
farm. 

The 7th Infantry will assemble in the vicinity of crossroads 562, 
east of the Emmitsburg road. 

The 9th Infantry, near crossroads 562, west of the Emmits- 
burg road. 10-20 A. M. 

The Engineers, near knoll 586. 

The 8th Infantry, at crossroads 525. 

Water for the men will, as far as practicable, be obtained fi-om 
the wells near the respective regiments. The surgeon, 7th Infantry, 
will be sent ahead to examine and allot wells to regimental repre- 
sentatives. 

All animals will be watered from Marsh Creek. 

The 7th Infantry will send a security detachment to crossroads 
540; and the 8th Infantry will station one towards Gx'eenmount. 

The 9th Infantry will send a detachment under an officer to* 



96 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

purchase all tools suitable for intrenching and water containers for 
the Brigade while at work, from Fairplay, inclusive, to J. A. Wolfe. 
Colonel Q will take command. I am going east of Round Top 
for orders. Brigade headquarters will accompany me. 

2. Actions and orders, General D, in compliance with 
division orders for preparation of the position. 

His colonels were told, shortly after 8-00 o'clock, of the 
intention to defend Rock Creek, and of the movement of the 
advance guard to the east. 

General D asks Major G (Engrs.) to direct the captain 
of the engineer company to report to him on the road south 
of knoll 527 at noon. He then reconnoiters the ground 
assigned to his brigade, and confers with General C, whose 
brigade has the northern section, to arrange for connection 
and mutual support. Meanwhile the adjutant has sent 
orders for the colonels to assemble on the road between 
knolls 528 and 527 at noon. 

Verbally, at 12-00 noon, at the designated point, to 
assembled colonels and engineer captain : 

The reinforced 1st Brigade is posted on the line St. Mary's Re- 
formed Church — King crossroads. 

The division intrenches this afternoon. 

The 2d Brigade north of us. A howitzer battery will be south- 
west of Round Top and east of Plum Run. Two gun batteries will 
be south of knoll 547, and one battery west of Plum Run and north 
of the 540—469 road. 

We will intrench approximately along the line of the Taney- 
town road. 

Sections are assigned as follows: 

The 7th Infantry from the house 450 yards north of E. Weikart 
12-00 ivi. farmhouse to roadfork 469. Arrange for mutual support with the 
regiment of the 2d Brigade to your left. 

The 8th Infantry from roadfork 469 to include knoll 528. 

Standing trench with overhead cover will be constructed. Knoll 
528 will be converted into a strong supporting point. 

The 7th and 8th Regiments will empty their combat wagons and 
send them to J. A. Wolfe to refill. They will then be assembled, under 
an officer of the 9th Infantry, at crossroads 540, at my disposal. 

The 9th Infantry will take station in reserve north of Hoffman 
crossroads. This regiment will send security detachments to Willow 
Grove S. H. and Lott and Diener farmhouses, and will patrol the 
entire front of the brigade. It will also send two companies to assist 
the engineers in constructing crossings over Plum Run. The pur- 
chased tools and water containers will be divided equally between 
the 7th and 8th regiments. It will, in addition, construct fire trenches 
for two battalions between Hoffman and crossroads 540, 

The engineer company will construct two additional complete 
routes from the TaneytowTi to the Emmltsburg road, practicable for 
all arms; one immediately south of Round Top and one between 
'Round Top and Little Round Top. The engineers will also assist the 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 97 

8th Infantry in strengthening knoll 528. Three wagons of the en- 
gineer train will be sent to the 8th Infantry and two to the 7th. 

Dressing station at Plum Run west of knoll 528. 

Station for slightly wounded: Emmitsburg road west of M. Bush- 
man farm. 

Brigade headquarters at this point (on road between 527 and 
528) . with which regiments will establish flag communication. 



Situation X 

( Captain' Drum) 
Re<iuired : 

1. The actions, orders, etc., of the commanders, 7th 
and 8th Infantry regiments for the organization and pre- 
paration of their sections of the defensive line. 

2. The actions, orders, etc.,- of the commander, 9th In- 
fantry, in complying with the brigade order. 

Note: — The situation begins upon the completion of 
the brigade commander's order at 12-15 P. M. The regi- 
ments are resting at the points indicated in Situation 9. 
The regimental commanders are on the road between hills 
527 — 528 and have with them their staffs. The troops are 
familiar with the situation except as covered by the brigade 
commander's orders. Situation 9. One platoon of the 
engineer company has been placed at the disposal of the 
commander, 8th Infantry. 

(Time for solution, four hours) 



Solution 



The Commanding Officer, 7th Infantry 

By mutual agreement, the colonels of the 7th and 8th 
regiments decided to meet, after reconnoitering their re- 
spective sections, to arrange for cooperation, etc. The col- 
onel, 7th Inf., then directs his adjutant: 

Have the mounted officers with the Regiment join me at this 
point at once. Have the senior captain march the Regiment at 1-30 
P. M. via this road (469 — 540 — 562) to a covered position west of this 12-15 p. m. 
hill (527). Secure the two engineer wagons and the purchased tools 
and the water containers. Empty the combat wagons and send them 
to J. A. Wolfe crossroads to refill and await orders. I will recon- 
noiter our section and then return here. 

The colonel, accompanied by the rest of his staff, rides 



98 PROBLEiMS IN TROOP LEADING 

along the Taneytown road, visiting and inspecting promi- 
nent points enroute, until he meets the commander of the 
right regiment of the 2d Brigade. After arranging for 
mutual support, the colonel returns to hill 527 via the L. 
Plank house. 

After arranging for mutual support with the command- 
er of the 8th Regiment, the colonel leads the mounted offi- 
cers to the orchard west of E. Weikart, and issues the fol- 
lowing verbal orders at 12-50 P. M. 

No new information of the enemy. 

The division intrenches this afternoon. 

The reinforced 1st Brigade is covering the front. The 2d 
Brigade defends to the north including that spur (points to farm 
I'oad running east from Vincent Spur) . Our brigade defends the 
south section. 

Batteries will support us from the line of Plum Run. 

The 8th Infantry holds from that road (469 — 540) to include 
that hill (528). The 9th Infantry, as reserve, will be southwest of 
that hill (528) and will send security detachments to our immediate 
front. Dressing station west of that hill (528) on Plum Run. En- 
gineers will open routes to the w^est, south of Round Top, and south 
19 c:n p -vr ^f Little Round Top. Brigade headquarters on road between hills 
iz-ou f. M. 527_528. 

Our Regiment defends from that spur (Vincent), exclusive, to 
that road (469 — 540), inclusive. The line will run approximately 
from that orchard (north of E. Weikart) through this point and east 
of those woods (south of 527). Standing trenches with overhead 
cover and obstacles will be constructed. 

1st Battalion will hold fi-om that orchard (north of E. Weikart), 
inclusive, to this point, inclusive, covering the front north of that 
orchard (900 yards east of the left of the line) to include that hill 
(466). 

2d Battalion will hold from this point, exclusive, to that road, 
inclusive (469 — 540), covering the front that hill (466), inclusive, 
to that road, exclusive (450 — 418). 

The Machine Gun Company (less 1st Platoon) will be near that 
house (L. Plank). The 1st Platoon near that orchard (north of E. 
Weikart) . Positions will be prepared from which to cover the f I'ont 
of our section and that creek (running south from 450)." 

Battalions will arrange for mutual support between themselves 
and the organizations on their flanks. Hill 466 will be covered by 
cross fire. 

3d Battalion, as reserve, will take station just west of that hill 
(527), constructing necessary cover. Covered approaches will be 
prepared to both sections of the line. Communication will be es- 
tablished between my position and the 1st and 2d Battalions and 
with brigade headquarters. 

One engineer wagon and one half of the purchased tools and 
water containers will be distributed by the adjutant to each battalion 
on the line. The tools of the combat wagons will be used by the re- 
serve and the Machine Gun Company. 

Regimental aid station in creek west of that hill (527). Band 
report to the surgeon. Slightly wounded station : Emmitsburg road 
about one mile north of where we rested. 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 99 

3d Battalion will provide cover for regimental headquarters in 
the orchard at this point. 

I will visit the brigade commander, the artillery in this vicinity; 
later I will inspect the work, and then return here. 

The Commanding Officer, 8th Infantry 

The colonels of the 7th and 8th Regiments mutually ar- 
range for the marching of their regiments via the 540 — 469 
road and to meet at this point after reconnoitering their 
sections. 

The colonel, 8th Infantry, directs his adjutant: 

Have all mounted officers with the Regiment report to me at 
this point at once. 

Have the senior captain march the Regiment at 1-45 P. M. via 12-16 P. M. 
the Keckler — 540 — 469 road to a covered position near that barn 
(just east of Plum Run on 540 — 469 road). Secure the engineer 
wagons and the purchased tools and water containers. Empty the 
combat wagons and send them to J. A. Wolfe to refill and await or- 
ders. I will reconnoiter our section and return here. 

The colonel arranges with the commander engineer 
company to have the platoon report at the same place and 
its commander to join him. 

The colonel, with the rest of his staff, rides to 469, 
down the Taneytown road to Willow Grove S. H. ; thence 
along the unimproved road up Plum Run to the top of hill 
528, visiting and inspecting points of interest. 

The colonel joins the commander of the 7th Infantry, 
and arranges for their mutual support, requesting especial- 
ly that the creek running south from 450 be covered by the 
7th Infantry. The mounted officers of the regiment having 
joined him, he issues the following verbal orders at the top 
of hill 528 : 

No new information of the enemy. 

The division intrenches this afternoon. 

The reinforced 1st Brigade covers our front. The 2d Brigade 
defends to the north. Our brigade defends the south section. Bat- i2-55 p M 
teries will support from the line of Plum Run. The right battery 
will be just west of Plum Run and north of the 540 — 469 road. 

The 7th Infantry holds from that road, inclusive (469 — 540), 
to the north. 9th Infantry as reserve, will be on that hill (Hoffman) 
and will send security detachments to our immediate front. Dress- 
ing station on the cx-eek west of this hill. Brigade headquarters 
on road between hills 527 — 528. 

Our Regiment defends from that road (469 — 540) to this creek 
(Plum Run). Standing trenches with overhead cover will be con- 
structed and obstacles prepared along the front. 



100 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

1st Battalion (less Companies A and B) will hold a line along 
the eastern edge of the woods from that road, exclusive (469 — 540), 
to that wire fence, inclusive (east and west fence in swale west of 
450), covering the front that clump of trees, inclusive (300 yards east 
469), to those woods, inclusive (southeast of 450). 

2d Battalion, Companies A and B, Machine Gun Company (less 
1st Platoon) and Engineer Platoon, Lieutenant Colonel K, command- 
ing, will hold this hill (528), covering the front of that road, inclusive 
(450 — 418), to that farmhouse (800 yards N. E. of Hoffman). A 
double tier of fire will be provided for, one line placed along here 
(500 contour) and the second around here (520 contour). 

Mutual support will be arranged with adjacent units. 

The 1st Platoon, Machine Gun Company, from position on the 
north side this hill, will cover the front of the right of the 7th In- 
fantry. 

3d Battalion, reserve, will take station, constructing necessary 
cover, just west of Plum Run and south of this road (469 — 540). Pre- 
pare covered approaches to both sections of the line and open routes 
through the woods south and east. Get in touch with the 9th In- 
fantry. Provide communication from my position to brigade head- 
quarters, to each section of the line, and to the reserves. 

The Band will report to the surgeon. Aid station in those two 
houses northwest of here (540 — 469 road). Dressing station west of 
knoll 528. Station for slightly wounded on the Emmitsburg road 
about two miles north of our resting place. 

Two engineer wagons and three quarters of the purchased tools 
and water containers will be issued to Lieutenant Colonel K's com- 
mand and the rest to the 1st Battalion. Tools of the combat wagons 
will be used by the reserve and the Machine Gun Company. 

3d Battalion will have cover prepared for my headquarters on 
the north slope of this hill (528). 

I will visit the brigade commander, artillery in this vicinity, 
9th Infantry; later I will inspect the work, and then return to this 
point. 

The Commanding Officer, 9th Infantry 

The colonel, at 12-15 P. M., informs the commander, 
engineer company, that Companies A and B will await his 
orders at their present station. He directs the adjutant : 

Have all the mounted officers and the 1st Battalion (less Com- 
panies A and B) report to me at Hoffman at once. Direct Companies 
-„ -_ A and B to await orders from Captain K at their present position. 

l^-l& P. M. rj,^Q j.gg^ Q-f ^Yie Regiment will receive orders later. Direct Captain 
M to turn over all the purchased articles to the 7th and 8th regi- 
ments, divided equally. Have Lieutenant N take charge of brigade 
combat wagons. 

I will ride down the Taneytown road to Willow Grove S. H., 
then to Hoffman. 

After covering the ground as stated above and inspect- 
ing the ridge at Hoffman, the colonel joins the mounted 
officers and gives them the following verbal orders: 

No new information of the enemy. 
The division intrenches this afternoon. 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 101 

The 1st reinforced Brigade is covering the front along the line 
St Mai-v's Reformed Church— King. 2d Brigade is to the north. 
Our brigade defends the south section. The 7th Infantry holds the 
left and the 8th the right of the line, which ends on that hill (628). 
Some of our artillery is located to the west of that hill (528). Dress- 
ing station on the creek west of that hill (528). Station for slightly 
wounded, Emmitsburg road about one mile north of our resting place. 
Brigade headquarters on road between hills 528 — 527. 

Our Regiment is in brigade reserve and will march to this pomt 
at 1-40 P. M. Companies A and B are assisting the engineers and 
will join us later. . 12-50 P. M. 

Major C, 1st Battalion (less Companies A and B) will move 
out at once and furnish security along the immediate front of the 
brigade. Place detachments at Willow Grove S. H., Lott, and Diener; 
and patrol between them. Gain contact with the 1st Brigade. I will 
send a patrol to the south. ^ ^ .u 

Major D, the 2d Battalion will mass under cover west ot those 
two houses (north of Hoffman). Construct trenches along the east 
edge of woods for two companies, covering in the direction of Willow 
Grove S. H. Gain contact with the 8th Infantry and open routes 
to their reserve. Open flag communication with the brigade com- 
mander and 8th Infantry. Maintain observation towards Willow- 
Grove S. H. , J. .1 • • a. 

Major E, the 3d Battalion will mass under cover at this point 
(north of 546). Construct trenches on the east edge of the woods 
for two companies to cover this road (546—432) and towards Barlow. 
Observation east and south. Send a patrol about two miles south on 
this road (546 — 496 — 472) to remain in observation. 

Extra ammunition will not be issued. 

The Machine Gun Company and sanitary units will assemble 
with the 3d Battalion. The surgeon will examine the wells m this 
vicinity and designate organizations to use them. 

I am going to brigade headquarters, then to get in touch with 
the artillery and 8th Infantry, and will return here in one half hour. 
Lieutenant Colonel Q, take command. Adjutant, accompany me. 

Note: — In issuing orders all orientation features are 

pointed out. 



Situation XI 



2d Brigade 

(Captain Haskei.l) 
Required : 

Actions and orders of General C, commanding the 2d 
Infantry Brigade, after receipt of the division orders on 
Round Top at 11-00 A. M., including the orders for the oc- 
cupation of the defensive position. 

(Time for solutio^n, two hours) 



Solution 

On receipt of orders from the division commander, on 



102 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

the east slope of Round Top, at 11-00 A. M., General C, 
commanding the 2d Infantry Brigade, reviewed the details 
of the order with his staff. He then requested the engineer 
commander to direct the commander of the engineer com- 
pany assigned to the 2d Brigade, to report for orders, at 
noon, on the Taneytown road, east of hill '592. 

To Lieutenant R, aid, at 11-00 A. M., General C or- 
dered : 

Ride to the brigade at crossroads 580 and direct regimental 
commanders to report to me for orders, at noon, on the Taneytown 
road, east of hill 592. Rejoin me at that point. 

11-10 A. M. General C then conferred with General D, command- 

ing the 3d Infantry Brigade, and learned that the defensive 
line of that brigade would include the northeast corner of 
the orchard 450 yards north of E. Weikart; also that a 
security detachment with patrols to the front would be 
posted at the Diener farmhouse. He informed General D 
that the right of the 2d Brigade would include the small 
spur 400 yards south of J. Musser farmhouse, and that 
hill 532 would be so fortified as to sweep the left front of 
the 3d Brigade. On suggestion from General C, General D 
agreed to post machine guns in position to cover the east 
slope of hill 532, northeast of J. Ekenrodes, if necessary. 
Having arranged these details for connection and mutual 
support on his right, General C, with his staff and order- 
lies, rode to the north along the Taneytown road. At Ceme- 
tery Hill he found the commanding general of the 4th In- 
fantry Brigade, 2d Division, and learned that this brigade 
would occupy a defensive line including Mrs. Buck's farm- . 
house, with the brigade reserve west of the large orchard 
north of N. Codori farmhouse, and artilley posted on the 
west slope of hill 606. General C also learned that the 4th 
Brigade had posted security detachments near Rock Creek 
with patrols to the front as far south as hill 592, near J. 
Taney. General C informed the commander of the 4th 
Brigade that the left of the 2d Brigade would extend to 
the small stream just south of Mrs. Buck's farmhouse; that 
the brigade reserve would be posted midway between A. 
Trostle and knoll 541 ; that artillery would be posted near 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 103 

A. Trostle and at knoll 544, southeast of Wheatfield; that 
a detachment would be posted on Powers Hill to provide 
security for the troops intrenching on the left of the 2d 
Brigade and to support patrols to the front and along Rock 
Creek. The two brigade commanders agreed to make dis- 
positions near Mrs. Buck's farmhouse to allow for mutual 
support. 

General C then returned to the vicinity of hill 592. On 
his way to Cemetery Hill and while returning, he noted 
carefully the details of the terrain in his section. At hill 
592 he was joined by his regimental commanders. Lieuten- 
ant R, and Captain B, commanding Company B, Engineers. 
After cautioning officers to take out their maps and to make 
notes of his orders, General C, at 12-05 P. M., began the 
following verbal order : 

The division intrenches this afternoon. ^ 

The 1st Brigade, reinforced, is posted on the line St. Marys 
Reformed Church — King crossroads and covers the occupation of the 

position. ^. . . » ,, 

The 3d Brigade is south of us. The 2d Division from Mrs. 
Buck's farmhouse, inclusive, to the north. 

The artillery will support from the line of Plum Run. Behind 
this Brigade, there will be a battalion of artillery near A. Trostle, 
and a battery near knoll 544, southeast of Wheatfield. 12-05 P. 33. 

We wili intrench approximately on the line of the Taneytown 
road. Standing trenches; overhead cover. 

Sections are assigned as follows: 

The 4th Infantry, from the house 450 yards north of E. Weikart, 
exclusive, to a point 200 yards south of the barn east of hill 592. A 
strong supporting point will be organized on knoll 532, near J. Mus- 
ser. 

The 5th Infantry will extend the left of the 4th Infantry to the 
first stream south of Mrs. Buck's farmhouse. 

Combat wagons of the 4th and 5th Infantry will be emptied and 
sent to the 580 crossroads to refill and to park at my disposal. 

The 6th Infantry, as reserve, will be posted in Wheatfield, mid- 
way between A. Trostle and knoll 541. Routes to the firing line will 
be opened up. One battalion will be sent to the 5th Infantry to assist 
in the clearing of the foreground. Security detachments will be 
sent to Powers Hill and to hill 476, east of George Spangler, to patrol 
our front and to connect with the 1st Brigade. 

Tools and water containers collected from neighboring farms 
will be divided equally between the 4th and 5th Infantry. 

The engineer company is assigned to the 4th Infantry to assist 
in preparation for defense. Two tool wagons from the engineer 
train are assigned to each regiment of the firing line. 

Water for the troops will be taken from wells and springs ap- 
proved and placarded by sanitary inspectors and from Plum Run. 
Dressing station northwest of Little Round Top, on Plum Run, 



104 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Station for the slightly wounded on Emmitsburg road west of M. 
Bushman. 

Messages to the north spur of Little Round Top. 

General C then directed an officer of his staff to repeat 
from notes the order just given. Corrections necessary 
were then made, and commanders directed to rejoin their 
commands. General C with his staff then rode out to, and 
along Rock Creek, all carefully reconnoitering the terrain 
in his section. 



Situation XII 
4th Infantry 
Required: 

Actions and orders of Colonel D, commanding the 4th 
Infantry, based on the orders received from General C at 
about 12-05 P. M., to include the orders for the occupation 
of the defensive position. 

(Time foi- solution, two hours) 



Solution 



Colonel D, after receiving the orders from General C, 
near hill 592, carefully reviewed them with his staff officers, 
orienting himself partly from the map and partly from 
the terrain. At 12-20 P. M. he turned to his adjutant and 
ordered : 

Ride to the Regiment. Direct Lieutenant Colonel M to march 
the Regiment at 1-30 P. M. to the northeast spur of Little Round 
Top. Also direct battalion commanders and the commander of the 
Machine Gun Company to report to me for orders at the crossroads 
near J. Musser at 1-00 P. M. Rejoin me at that same point. 

The adjutant, with one orderly, then rode to execute 
the above order. Colonel D, with the remainder of his 
staff and the engineer captain, rode to the south along the 
Taneytown road, turned to the east on the lane to George 
Spangler's farmhouse and proceeded as far as hill 476. 
From this point he returned to the Taneytown road at J. 
Musser via F. (H) Swisher and the Diener — 515 road; 
then rode south to E. Weikart where he met the colonel, 2d 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 105 

Infantry, and conferred with him regarding connection and 
mutual support between the two regiments. Returning to 
J. Musser, he was joined by his adjutant and the officers he 
had summoned. During his reconnaissance, he had fre- 
quently cqnf erred with the engineer officer and had obtained 
recommendations concerning the extent and character of 
the preparations for defense. 

Directing officers to arrange their maps for reference 
and cautioning them to take notes of his orders, Colonel D 
then issued the following verbal orders at 1-05 P. M. : 

Nothing new of the enemy. 

Our division intrenches this afternoon on the general line of 
the Taneytown road. 

The 1st Brigade, reinforced, is posted on the line St. Mary's 
Reformed Church — King crossroads and covers the occupation of the 
position. 

The 3d Brigade is on our right; the 2d Division extends to the 
left of our brigade from Mrs. Buck's farmhouse, inclusive, to the 
north. 

The artillery will support from the line of Plum Run. 

This brigade occupies the section from the house 450 yards 
north of E. Weikart, exclusive. 

The 5th Infantry occupies the left of the brigade line to a point 
200 yards south of the barn on the Taneytown road, east of hill 592. 
The 6th Infantry, as brigade reserve, will be posted in Wheatfield, 
midway between A. Trostle and knoll 541. It will provide the neces- 
sary security in our front and will open up communications in our ^_q^ ^ ^ 
rear. 

This Regiment occupies the sector from the house 450 yards 
north of E. Weikart to a point 200 yards south of the barn east of hill 
592. 

Sections are assigned as follows: 

The 1st Battalion and Machine Gun Company from the J. Eken- 
rodes farm road to the house 450 yards north of E. Weikart, exclusive. 
A strong supporting point will be organized on knoll 532, by J. Mus- 
ser's farmhouse. 

The 2d Battalion from the farm road, exclusive, to a point 200 
yards south of the barn east of hill 592. 

The 3d Battalion, as regimental reserve, will be posted in rear 
of knolls 561 and 572. Cover trenches will be constructed. An ob- 
servation shelter for the regimental commander will be constructed 
on knoll 572. 

The engineer company is assigned to duty with the 1st Bat- 
talion. 

Standing trenches with overhead cover will be constructed. 
Tools collected from nearby farms and those from the Division En- 
gineer Train and water containers will be divided equally among the 
three battalions. 

Water for the troops will be taken from Plum Run and from 
wells and springs approved and placarded by sanitary inspectors. 
Dressing station on Plum Run, northwest of Little Round Top. Sta- 
tion for the slightly wounded on the Emmitsburg road west of M. 
Bushman. 



A 



106 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Brigade headquarters on the north spur of Little Ro.und Top. 
Messages to me at knoll 572. Flag communication. 

Lieutenant Colonel M has been directed to march the Regiment 
at 1-30 P. M. to the noi'th spur of Round Top. Rejoin your commands 
at that point and conduct them to the sections assigned. On arrival 
at the position, combat wagons will be at once emptied and returned 
to crossroads 580, where they will refill and park at the disposal of 
the brigade commander. 

Colonel D then directed a staff officer to repeat from his 
notes the orders as given above. Necessary corrections 
were then made, and officers directed to rejoin their com- 
mands. 



Situation XIII 

(Captain Wekks) 

The 7th Infantry, 1st Battalion in front, arrives at a 
point just west of 527 hill at 2-00 P. M. 

Required : 

The actions and orders of the major, 1st Battalion, 7th 
Infantry, from the time he receives the regimental com- 
mander's order at 12-50 P. M. until his battalion is deployed. 



The 4th Infantry arrives at the north spur of Little 
Round Top at 1-50 P. M., and is met by a battalion adjutant, 
who conducts the 1st Battalion to the J. Musser house, 
where it is halted by the major. 

Rcquii-ed : 

Orders of the major, 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry, for 
the deployment of his battalion. 

CTime for solution, three hours) 



1st Battalion, 7tli Infantry 
Solution 



Upon receipt of the regimental commander's order at 
12-50 P. M., the major, 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry, while 
awaiting the arrival of the troops, rides over the section 
allotted to his battalion; first proceeding with the major 
of the 2d Battalion along the road to E. Weikart. It was 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 107 

arranged between these two officers that the 1st Battalion 
should extend its trenches about 75 yards south of the road 
along which they were riding. It was also agreed that, if 
necessary, the fire of at least a part of the right company, 
1st Battalion, would be turned across the front of the 2d 
Battalion. The major of the 1st Battalion then proceeded 
along the road to the orchards north of E. Weikart, where 
he met the commander of the 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry. 
It was arranged between these two officers that fire would 
be brought to bear, if necessary, by a portion of the left 
company, 7th Infantry, on the slopes near J. Ekenrodes; 
and likewise fire from the 532 hill position would be directed 
into the ravine running southeast from Vincent spur. The 
major, 4th Infantry, was notified that the left of the 7th In- 
fantry line would rest at the point where the Taneytown 
road crosses the small stream south of Vincent Spur. 

The major, 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry, then rode back 
through the fields to the orchard west of E. Weikart, sending 
the adjutant ahead to conduct the battalion to that place. 
At 2-10 P. M., he issues the following order to his assembled 
captains : 

Our division takes up a defensive position appioximately along 
this, the Taneytown road. The 1st Brigade covers the fi'ont of the 
division and is on the far side of Rock Creek, the stream which you 
can see about a mile east of here. The 9th Infantry furnishes se- 
curity detachments in our immediate front. The 2d Brigade is on 
our left and our 2d Battalion will be on our right. The regimental 
reserve is ordered to take station just west of that hill south of here. 

This Battalion is assigned the section from this orchard, in- .^ ^„ 
elusive, to the small stream 500 yards north of here. "" ■ " ' 

Company A will construct a trench astride of this road, and will 
hold the sector from that 466 ridge, inclusive, to the Bushman house. 
Trenches will be so located that a part of the company's fire may be 
directed across the front of the 2d Battalion. 

Company B will prolong the left of Company A at 50 yards in- 
tei-val, and will hold the sector from Bushman to a point midway 
between Bushman and the orchard in front of the left of the line. 

Company C will occupy the nose in the vicinity of those orchai'ds 
(400 yards north of E. Weikart) and will be responsible for the sec- 
tor which extends from midway between Bushman and that orchard 
(900 yards in front of the line) to the orchard, inclusive. Trenches 
will be so arranged that a portion of the fire may be delivered along 
the fi'ont of the 4th Infantry battalion on our left. 1st Platoon, 
Machine Gun Company, will be located near the right of Company 
C's line. 

Standing trenches with overhead cover and obstacles will be 
constructed, and positions connected by cover trenches. 

Company D, as support, will send two platoons to collect mater- 



108 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

ial for obstacles in front of the trenches. The remainder of the 
company will construct cover trenches, for the entire company, in 
those woods north of here. An observation trench for the battalion 
commander will be constructed near the support. A trench to com- 
municate with Company C will be built. 

Tools from the two engineer wagons assigned the battalion will 
be equally divided amongst the three companies on the firing line. 
The purchased tools will be used by the support. Tools on our combat 
wagons will be turned over to the 3d Battalion. Ammunition will 
be unloaded from the combat wagons in rear of Companies A, B, and 
C. The wagons will then carry out the instructions given them by 
the regimental adjutant. 

The regimental aid station will be in this creek southwest of 
here. 

I shall inspect the line chosen, , beginning with Company A. 
Flag communication will be established with my position at the sup- 
port. 



1st Battalion, 4th Infantry 
Solution 

Orders, major, 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry, to assembled 
company commanders, including those of machine gun and 
engineer companies, at 2-10 P. M. : 

Our division takes up a defensive position, approximately along 
the road, facing east. The 1st Brigade covers the front of the divi- 
sion and is on the east side of the stream, Rock Creek, about a mile 
from here. Immediate protection of our front will be provided by the 
6th Infantry. The 3d Brigade intrenches the line from those or- 
chards south of here. Our 2d Battalion will be next on our left. The 
3d Battalion, as regimental reserve, takes post in rear of that (572) 
hill. 

We hold the right of our brigade line and connect with the 3d 
Brigade. 

Companies A and B and the Machine Gun Company, assisted 
by the engineers, under my orders will organize a strong supporting 
point on this knoll. Company A on the left will defend the sector 
from J. Ekenrodes to F. (H) Swisher. Company B on the right will 
cover from F. (H) Swisher to this (515 — Diener) road, inclusive, 
and will be prepared to fire along the front of the 7th Infantry trench- 
es on our right. Emplacements for two machine guns will be pre- 
pared in each company section. 

Company C will construct a standing trench with overhead 
cover and obstacles on the nose south of here, between this position 
and the left of the 3d Brigade, and will be prepared to fire either along 
our front or to the southeast in the valley of that stream, as well as 
in the direction of that orchard (in front). 

Company D, as support, will construct cover trenches south- 
west of the J. Musser house for itself and the engineers. An ob- 
servation trench for the battalion commander will be prepared on 
this knoll (532 near J, Musser). 

Tools from one engineer wagon will be assigned to Companies 
A and B and the engineer company. Tools in the combat wagon will 
be turned over to Company C, and those collected from nearby farms 
to the support. Ammunition will be unloaded in rear of the trench- 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 109 

es, and wagons will return to 580 crossroads, where they will refill 
and be at the disposal of the brigade commander. 

The regimental aid station is located near the regimental re- 
sei-ve. 

Troops will use water only from sources which have been ap- 
proved by the surgeon. 

I w'ill be on this knoll (532). 



Situation XIV 
Company C, 4th Infantry 
Required: 

The orders (not commands) of the captam of Company 
C, 4th Infantry, for the deployment of his company, and the 
arrangements for the defense of his section. 

(Time for solution, one hour) 



Solution 

The captain of Company C, leaving a detail to see that 
the tools allotted come forward on the combat wagon, 
marches his company along the road to the ridge in front 
of Vincent Spur ; where he gives the following order to his 
entire company : 

Our division takes up a defensive position, extending north and 
south along this road, to meet a hostile movement from the east. 

Our battalion holds the southernmost section of the 2d Brigade 
line. On our right is the 3d Brigade. The 6th Infantry has security 
detachments in our front. Company D and later the engineers will 
be in support behind that orchard (515). 

Our company, on the extreme right of our battalion, holds this 
spur. 

Standing squad trenches at one yard interval will be construct- 
ed on the line which I shall designate. The squad trenches later will 
be connected. This rail fence furnishes material for overhead cover 
construction. Obstacles will be constructed later. 

Tools from the combat wagon which comes here will be dis- 
tributed equally along the line. 

Regimental aid station is located near the regimental reserve, 
behind the last ridge which we crossed. Drinking water will be 
obtained only from the wells which have been approved by the sur- 
geon. 

My station will be with the 8th squad. 

The captain then gave commands for deploying his 
company on the line, located the same, and started the dig- 
ging. Ranges to prominent objects in front were measured 
by range finders and recorded. Sectors were assigned to 



110 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

platoon commanders. Flag communication was opened 
with battalion headquarters and to the right with the near- 
est company of the 7th Infantry. 



The Artillery Brigade — 8-00 A. M. to 3-00 P. M. 

(Captain Scott) 

The division commander, at 8-00 A. M., left an aid to 
advise brigade and auxiliary commanders as to the situa- 
tion, and went with his staff, and the artillery and engineer 
commanders, escorted by a platoon of cavalry, to reconnoi- 
ter the front assigned to his division. His route was via 
Greenmount and the Keckler farm, to the Taneytown road. 

Upon hearing the message from the army commander 
and the order for the advance guard, General E (artillery) 
sent the following message, by agents, to the artillery 
regiments : 

Regimental and battalion commanders report to the brigade 
commander with their reconnaissance parties. Lieutenant colonels 
take command of the regiments. 

Upon their arrival, General E acquainted them with 
the situation, and directed that the colonels ride with him, 
the remainder of the party in rear of the headquarters 
party. 

Maps were consulted, and it was seen that the line of 
hills 528 — Round Top — 592 was likely wholly to determine 
the location of the Blue artillery. 

As they rode along, the situation was discussed and 
the decision reached that a hostile attack could scarcely 
begin today; that the hostile artillery was certain to be in 
superior strength ; hence, the Blue artillery must play safe ; 
that the enemy's knowledge of superior strength in all arms 
would make him aggressive, and inclined to force a decision 
with as little delay as possible; hence, the Blue artillery 
must be prepared to assist in the close defense of its in- 
fantry trenches. 

Upon arrival at the east edge of the woods on the 
crest 528 — 527, the party halted, and the division com- 
mander stated that the line of infantry trenches would run 
from 100 to 300 yards in front of the woods, and trend 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 111 

northeasterly, in the general direction of Powers Hill, which 
was visible. 

General E summoned his artillery officers, dismounted, 
and walked out into the field north of the road. Here 
maps were laid out and oriented and a few minutes were 
devoted to study of the terrain to the east, locating and 
identifying roads, stream lines, and places. Then General 
E issued the following instructions : 

The enemy is in superior force and may be expected in our 
front before night, though probably too late to make an attack today. 

He has three corps and two cavalry divisions, and camped, last 
night, just east of the line Union Mills — Hanover, which is about 
15 miles east of here. 

Our division is to occupy a defensive position, extending from 
the south end of this wooded ridge to Powers Hill, that small wooded 
knoll about two miles to the northeast. The 2d Division extends our 
left to Barlow Knoll, about a mile north of Gettysburg. The Cavalry 
Division is to operate on its left. The 3d and 4th Divisions will clear 
the mountains today. Our advance guard of today is going to the 
east of Rock Creek by this road, and the one through Barlow, about 
two miles south of here, and will cover the preparation of this posi- 
tion. 

The enemy is superior in artillery, probably two to one. He is 
also superior in infantry. It seems likely that he will attempt to 
force a quick decision. He is likely to use part of his ai'tillery as 
counter batteries, and part as infantry batteries, right from the 
start. Our best chance is to avoid engaging his counter batteries, 
to attack his infantry b&tteries where possible, and to batter his in- 
fantry at every stage of the attack. These considerations demand 
safety, concealment, wide fields of fire, and alternative positions for 
the fire units. I do not believe these requirements can be met by 
any positions in front of this line of hills, or on them. The country 
behind must furnish them, and it must be thoroughly reconnoitered 
to a considerable depth. Dead spaces must be eliminated as far as 
possible, and every fire unit must be able to cover one or more por- 
tions of the infantry trenches ; not only their foreground, but the 
trenches themselves, so that they may be made untenable to the 
enemy. 

The 2d Artillery will reconnoiter the right half of the position 
to include Round Top. The 1st Artillery will reconnoiter the left 
half. 

Leave communication parties here and at roadfork 515, near J. 
Musser. 

Let me have your preliminary reports at E. Weikart's at 10-30 
o'clock. 

Proceed with your reconnaissance. I am going to join the divi- 
sion commander. 

Discussion of the Artillery Situation from the Map 

The Red forces are stronger than the Blues, even if 
the latter were concentrated. They have but a day's march 
to make to be in position to strike the Blue defensive line, 



112 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

and the numerous roads leading thereto will enable them 
to use all their forces. In the same time, the Blues can 
bring up their 3d and 4th Divisions and the Cavalry Divi- 
sion. 

Re-supply of ammunition, by the Chambersburg road, 
will be impossible for two days at least, until the 5th Divi- 
sion gets through with its trains. The Waynesboro turn- 
pike is, of course, open and available for this purpose, as 
is the Western Maryland, and the Philadelphia and Reading 
railroads. 

The opposing forces are, then, four infantry and one 
cavalry division of the Blues, against six infantry and two 
cavalry divisions of the Reds. The Red infantry divi- 
sions have each 50% more artillery than the Blue divi- 
sions, making their total force of artillery more than double 
that of the Blues. The corps artillery of the Reds will 
add further to this disparity of strength. 

The Blue artillery must be so disposed as to lessen the 
disadvantage under which it must operate. It must be so 
disposed that it can combat the hostile artillery, if neces- 
sary, — not permitting the latter a free hand in attacking 
the Blue infantry; but on the other hand, be as little ex- 
posed to damage itself as possible, and able to combat the 
hostile infantry right up to the Blue trenches. 

Hostile artillery positions in abundance can be had 
in the country east of Rock Creek ; those most dangerous to 
the Blue position (1st Div.), being in the valley of White 
Run, the vicinity of Toppers, and east of the line of hills 
of which Wolf Hill is the center. In case of an enveloping 
attack from the south, — not at all unlikely, — the ridge east 
of Barlow offers advantageous positions. 

Hills 528 and 527, the Round Tops, hill 592, and Pow- 
ers Hill, — the whole ridge, in fact, will afford excellent ob- 
servation stations for the Blue artillery, but not good bat- 
tery positions. Their wooded and rugged tops would be 
difficult to occupy; and, because of their steep eastern 
slopes, the batteries would have to be placed close to the 
forward crests, in order to participate in the close defense 
of the trenches, and would be easily located and overwhelm- 
ed by the superior hostile artillery. All possible positions 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 113 

to the east of these hills are more or less open to hostile ob- 
servation, and batteries placed in them would soon be si- 
lenced. 

It is necessary to look for positions in rear of those 
hills. 

The more hilly and rugged the terrain, the more diffi- 
cult it is, in general, to so locate the artillery units that con- 
centration of fire on all parts of the field is possible. Each 
position must be carefully reconnoitered to determine just 
what area or areas, can be covered by fire from it ; whether 
gun or howitzer fire, or both, can be used ; whether suitable 
observation stations can be had, and the character of the 
approaches to the position. 

With this data, the higher commander can decide which 
positions to occupy, which to prepare as alternative posi- 
tions, which to eliminate from consideration. Unless there 
are conditions existing that outweigh its advantages, the 
usual procedure is to occupy those positions which enable 
the greatest concentration of fire on the most important 
sectors of the front. 

It is necessary to determine the dead space created by 
the mask in the front of each position. In the field, this 
is done usually by measuring the angular height, mask-gun- 
target. This angular height is the elevation for the "least 
range," the trajectory of which will clear the mask. The 
difference between this "least range" and the distance from 
the gun to mask, is the "dead space." By the terms of 
General E's orders, the dead space must not extend beyond 
the line of infantry trenches. When the gun and target 
are on about the same level, the height of mask can be 
measured directly, in mils, and a glance at the B. C. ruler 
shows the range at which the trajectory will clear. If the 
target is above or below the gun, a correction is neces- 
sary. It is usually possible to estimate this, and an allow- 
ance of at least ten per cent, is made for safety. 

With the map alone, a cross section may be made to 
scale, and the height of the mask above the line, gun-target, 
determined. If this is less than the ordinate for the range 
given in the table of trajectories (for the distance to mask) , 
the trajectory will not clear. As before, if the gun and 



114 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

target are at the same level, the height of the mask above 
them, in feet, is the ordinate at the distance gun-mask of 
the least range, the trajectory of which will clear the mask. 

If the table of ordinates is not at hand, and a B. C. 
ruler, or range table is, the angular height of the mask 
above the line, gun-target, may be determined from the ele- 
vations given on the map, and compared with the angle of 
departure for the range. 

For example: Can a 3-inch gun on hill 561 (Devils 
Den), fire on hill 466? Range to target, 2,200 yards. 
Height of gun above target, 95 feet, or 32 yards. Thirty- 
two divided by 2.2 is 15 mils, the angular height of the gun 
above the target. Distance from gun to mask, 600 yards. 
Height of mask above gun, 80 feet, or 27 yards. Twenty- 
seven divided by .6 is 45 mils, the angular height of the mask 
above the gun. Forty-five plus 15 is 60 mils, just the angle 
of departure for the given range. Allowing a factor of 
safety of 10*;;', the least range is 2,400 yards. (Percin's 
and K formulas.) 

Fire could be safely delivered on the east edge of the 
field in which the figures 466 appear, the range having been 
measured to the middle figure. Trees are taken as 40 feet 
high. 

The areas possible to reach with artillery fire, from a 
given position, may usually be determined with sufficient 
accuracy by running two or three trial lines in the manner 
described. 

The determination of such data on the ground is de- 
scribed under "Reconnaissance by Captain D." 

A convenient method for determining the distance from 
a mask to a gun position from which projectiles will clear 
the former, is as follows : 

Determine the height of the mask in yards, above the 
line, gun-target. Multiply this by four if the range is be- 
low 3,000 yards; by three, if it is above 3,000 yards. 
Divide the result by the hundreds of yards from mask to 
target. The quotient is the distance in yards from mask 
to gun. 

A rule of thumb in use in the German service is : 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 115 

Place howitzers a distance in rear of the crest equal 
to three to four times the height of the crest. Place guns 
60 meters in rear of the crest for every meter of cover it 
affords, for ranges of 1,000 to 2,000 meters; 220 meters for 
ranges of 2,000 to 3,000 meters ; 10 meters for ranges above 
3,000 meters. Under 1,000 meters place them more than 
60 meters in rear. 

A formula useful at times for computing the angle of 
departure isq=5 K (K+3). 

Angle of departure = 5K (K+3), in which K is the 
thousands of yards in range. The angle of departure is in 
mils. 

Percins formula, 4y=x (R — x), is a good one. In it, 
y is the height of mask in yards, and R — x the distance from 
mask to target in hundreds of yards. 

With such a map as the 3-inch, assignments of areas of 
operation, of sectors of observation, of battery positions, of 
routes of approach, etc., can be made quite fully. On the 
ground, the brigade commander makes a general assign- 
ment of areas of operation, either from a map or during 
a preliminary personal reconnaissance. The regimental 
commanders divide the work of reconnoitering their areas 
between their battalion commanders; usually, during their 
own personal reconnaissance. 

Based on his own observations, and the verbal or writ- 
ten reports of his subordinates, the brigade commander 
makes a report and recommendations for the use of the ar- 
tillery, to the division commander. 

The battalion commanders make more detailed recon- 
naissance, and assign batteries to positions. The battery 
commanders make accurate reconnaissance of their posi- 
tions and fields of fire, and ensure their guns being able to 
do all that is expected of them. 

In the occupation of the position by Battery F, the bat- 
tery commander, relying wholly on the major's reconnais- 
sance, established his battery in a difficult position, with 
much labor, only to find that it could not do all that the 
major expected it would be able to do. He could then do 
no more than report it. 



116 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Action of Colonel K, 2d L. A. 

Colonel K directed as follows: 

The howitzers are likely to find most suitable places in the 
north half of this sector. Major N (Comdr. How. Bn.), reconnoiter 
the part of our sector north of an east and west line through this 
point. 

Captain D (Regt. Adj.), reconnoiter south of that line. Desig- 
nate two of the scouts to accompany me. 

I will ride over the whole area myself, and meet you at E. 
Weikart's at 10-15 A. M. 

Proceed with your reconnaissance. 

Leave two men here as a communication post. 

Reconnaissance by Captain D 

Captain D, with his remaining four scouts, rode south 
along the edge of hill 528, where he noted the possibilities 
of that hill as a position for observation of fire, and 
measured the slope toward 471, 394W, the bend in Rock 
Creek southwest of 418, and the nose between that stream 
and Plum Run ; noting the appearance of the foreground as 
he went, and pausing when south of 528, to measure the 
slope to the road Hoffman — 432. 

On the edge of Plum Run valley, he turned north 
through the woods, came out on the spur running northwest 
from hill 528, and followed it to the road. 

Here he dismounted, and oriented his map on the ground. 
With his B. C. ruler, he measured the height, in mils, to the 
top of trees on hill 528, 50 mils. Making an allowance for 
the slopes toward Rock Creek, he decided that a gun batter>^ 
in this position would only be able to fire beyond the line, 
mouth of Plum Run— hill 471. 

A similar observation on the trees on hill 527 showed 
that it could be cleared at a range of 1,700 yards, or a little 
beyond E. Weikart's. This might, then, be a useful po- 
sition from which to bring a flanking fire on the foreground 
of the infantry lines north of that point. He noted that 
the spur would accommodate two batteries in normal for- 
mation, or three with the flank caissons left out of the line. 
He noted this as position (a). 

He noted that just northwest of the spur was an open 
flat, large enough for a battalion in echelon or line, suitable 
for guns firing due east or northeast at ranges greater than 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 117 

2,000 yards, or for howitzers firing to front or flank, at all 
ranges down to that of the infantry trenches. This he re- 
corded as position (b) . 

About 400 yards to the north, he noted a long east and 
west spur that seemed to offer a firing position for a bat- 
talion, firing south. He accordingly rode over to it, and 
determined that guns on it could clear hill 528 at 2,000 
yards range. Making an allowance for the slope to 432 
(south of Willow Grove S. H.) , he decided that the fire could 
reach that corner. West of 528, the mask of hill and trees 
falls away ; and he decided that fire from the position could 
reach all points along the line 540 — 432. He noted this as 
position (c). 

No other positions east of Plum Run offer less dead 
space in front of the lines, and Captain D was forced to the 
conclusion that no part of the foreground, south of E. 
Weikart's, could be covered by gunfire from within that 
area. 

He rode next to the fence corner just south of hill 547, 
and made observations on 528, 527, and the saddle between, 
finding that, with an allowance of 10%, they could be clear- 
ed at an average range of 1,400 yards, about that of the 
trenches. Gun fire from this position, then, could sweep 
their immediate foreground, and answer the requirements 
laid down by General E. He noted this as position (d). 

He next rode to the grove west of Plum Run and north 
of the road, and determined that guns in it could sweep the 
front from the roadfork just south of E. Weikart's to the 
north, and was, therefore, better for the purpose than the 
position (a). 

Captain D then rode to the road corner 540, and noted 
that, from anywhere west of the ridge of which that point 
is the northern end, a flanking fire could be delivered against 
an attack upon the right flank of the position from the di- 
rection of Barlow; and that artillery in Plum Run valley 
could reach such a position via the little valley parallel to, 
and north of road 469 — 540, safe from all but aerial obser- 
vation. 

Captain D noted that, with the exception of (d), the 



il8 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

occupation of positions would be open to hostile aerial ob- 
servers, unless it be done at night. 

He decided to recommend that positions (a) and (b) be 
occupied by daylight, and intrenched ; positions (d) and (e), 
(bn. less 1 btry. and 1 btry. respectively), be prepared for 
occupation, and occupied after dark ; the intrenchments, etc. 
in (a) and (c) to be left undisturbed. 

Captain D noted that all these positions were visible 
from Round Top, and decided that distant fire to the front, 
or left front, could be best directed from there ; that to the 
flank, from 528 and 540 ; while in close defense a number of 
observation stations would be necessary along the east edge 
of the woods, 528—527. 

Captain D then rode rapidly to E. Weikart's to report, 
following up the east branch of Plum Run, with a view to 
learning its value as a possible route to the front of the po- 
sition. 

In the northern part of the position, the division com- 
mander decided not to include Powers Hill in the intrenched 
line, but to have the latter follow the general line of the 
Taneytown road. As this would affect the placing of the 
artillery, General E sent a message to both regimental com- 
manders advising them. 

At 9-30 A. M., the division commander sent orders to 
the column directing the 2d Brigade to assemble at cross- 
roads 580; the artillery, ambulance companies, and am- 
munition train, near the J. Biesecker farm ; the 3d Brigade, 
Engineers, and Engineer train, near J. A. Wolfe. The di- 
vision was at rest until 1-30 P. M. ; orders to be issued east 
of Round Top at 11-00 A. M. 

General E's Report and Recommendation 

When the regimental commanders reported to him at 
10-30 A. M., at E. Weikart's, General E went over the whole 
situation with them, and formulated his own report and 
recommendation, submitting it to the division commander. 

The howitzer battalion : Position on Plum Run west of Round 
Top, one battery due west of hill 527; to fii'e on all parts of the front 
and right flank. 

One gun battalion west of Plum Run, and south of hill 547. 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 119 

Distant fire on all parts of the front and right flank; for close de- 
fense, the same south of Round Top. 

One gun battalion (less one battery) near hill 517. Distant 
fire on all parts of the front and right flank; for close defense, the 
sectors, hill 466— G. Bushman, south of the line hill 517— hill 527, 
and north of the line 517 — Geo. Spangler. 

One gun battery west of hill 544. Distant fire on any part of 
the front; for close defense, the sectors road corner 450 — E. Weikart, 
and north of the line 544 — J. Musser. 

One gun battalion in the vicinity of A. Trostle. Sector J. Musser 
—Wolfe Hill. 

Distributing stations at roadfork 562 (near J. A. Wolfe), and 
roadfork 580 (near the Peach Orchard). 

The artillery to remain for the present under the control of di- 
vision headquarters; that is, of the artillery commander. 

After some discussion, this report was approved by 
the division commander. Copies were made by artillery 
regimental commanders. 

Orders of the Artillery Commander 

General E then directed as follows : 

Our Brigade, except the battalion with the advance guard, has 
been directed to assemble near the J. Biesecker farm. The division 
is to rest until 1-30 P. M. 

The 2d Artillery will occupy positions in the right half of the 
position, the 1st Artillery in the left half, in accordance with the 
copy you have of my report. 

The order to rest is not to be construed as limiting necessary 
reconnaissance; you will require that to be pushed to completion, so 
that, at 1-30 P. M., the batteries may be marched direct to their po- 
sitions, if so ordered, ready for immediate action. 

You will also direct a reconnaissance to the front, as far as 
the dispositions of our covering forces will admit. I shall try to have 
the area south of the 450 — 393W — 546 road reconnoitered by the ad- 
vance guard battalion. 

Lieutenant Y (aid). Ride to the advance guard, give my com- 
pliments to General B, and explain to him what I wish Major K to 
do. If he agrees, explain the situation to Major K, and direct him 
to have the country south of the road 450 — 393W — 546 reconnoitered 
for possible hostile artillery positions. 

Action and Orders of Major N, 1st L. A., After 1-45 P. M. 

About 1-00 P. M., orders were received by Lieutenant 
Colonel P, 1st L. A., to send the 2d Battalion at 1-30 P. M. 
to J. Rose, where its commander would meet it. The colonel 
had ordered out only the battery reconnaissance officers, and 
had sent them on reconnaissance to the front ; the battalion 
commanders had made the reconnaissance of positions. 

The battalion commander, Major N, met the battalion 



120 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

at J. Rose's at 1-45 P. M., and led it along the lane into the 
woods to the east, where he had it form up roughly in line 
of section columns at closed intervals, and ordered, Dis- 
mount and rest. 

He then assembled the officers (mounted), and rode at 
their head through the woods to hill 544. Here all dis- 
mounted, under cover of the woods, maps were oriented, 
and the major explained the whole situation, as he knew it, 
requiring the officers to make notes, and added : 

Battery F occupies this position; sector of observation for the 
present, Littles Run — Powers Hill. Preparation will also be made for 
fire over the saddle between the Round Tops. 

The other batteries are to occupy positions just west of hill 517, 
about 800 yards southwest of hex*e. They are to prepare for distant 
fire on any part of the front or right flank, and for close defense 
on the front to the north of Little Round Top, between the Round Tops, 
and south of the line 517 to 527. 

Combat trains remain where they now are. 

Positions will be occupied without exposure to aerial observation, 
will be carefully screened, and will be intrenched. 

Battalion and regimental stations, as well as battery com- 
mander's stations, are to be on Little Round Top. All will be in- 
trenched. 

The battalion reel cart will lay a direct wire for each battery com- 
mander, connecting him with his battery; besides, a single line from 
my station to the battery commanders and the combat train. Battery 
commanders will also lay buzzer wire to their batteries. 

If auxiliary stations are desirable, consult with me. 

We will ride to the position to be taken by the other batteries. 

Major N then led his officers back over the route by 
which they had come to the batteries; thence south along 
the wood road to the north edge of the field 517. Here the 
party reoriented, and the Major explained that batteries D 
and E were to occupy the edge of the woods west of 517, 
and told the three battery commanders to proceed with the 
occupation of their positions, and then join him on Little 
Round Top. 



Occupation of its Position by Battery F 

Captain F rejoined his battery and directed the lieuten- 
ant in command of the combat train to hold it there, send- 
ing all his cannoneers, except one per carriage, to join the 
firing battery. This done, he put the firing battery in 
march, leading it in section column to just in rear of the 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 121 

line to be occupied. The woods were too dense to permit 
of anything like a normal formation ; so he ordered up all 
cannoneers, with axes, and, with the assistance of his lieu- 
tenants, the place where each gun was to stand was selected ; 
and a space, large enough to accommodate it and the caisson, 
and for the teams to haul them in, cleared by axmen. 
Then each chief of section was directed to conduct his piece 
into position, unlimber it, send the limber to the rear, and 
then bring up its caisson. The ammunition in the caisson 
and its limber was piled near the gun, and the caissons 
were ordered to accompany the limbers to the position of 
the combat train. The 5th section caissons were similarly 
unloaded at the guns and sent back. 

The gun positions were close to the edge of the timber 
to minimize the danger from falling trees, but within the 
brush to escape detection. A lone tree on Little Round Top 
was designated as an aiming point, and a lane was cut 
through the brush, from each gun, to enable the gunner to 
see it. 

While this was going on, the signal men ran a line of 
buzzer wire to Little Round Top, there to await the selec- 
tion of the battery commander's station. 

Captain F directed a cover pit for the ammunition 
to be dug beside each gun, to be enlarged as rapidly as pos- 
sible in order to furnish cover for the whole detachment. 

Having seen the work started, and that the lieutenants 
understood what was wanted. Captain F left the Executive 
Officer in charge, mounted his horse and rode to Little 
Round Top, dismounted in rear of its crest, and joined the 
battalion commander. 

After consultation with the latter, he selected a place 
for his own station, whence a good view could be had of 
the main sector he was to observe. No place could be found 
allowing observation of both sectors, nor could a suitable 
one be found from which both sector and battery could be 
seen. 

He ordered up a corporal and six men with shovels, 
picks, and axes, and directed the digging of a narrow stand- 
ing trench, about perpendicular to a line to G. Gilbert's, and 



122 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

well hidden among bushes. The earth was wasted among 
the bushes. Two six-inch logs laid four feet apart across 
its center, with brush and earth on top, made a shrapnel 
proof cover. The open ends gave ingress. Undercutting 
the bushes in front gave an unobstructed view of the sector 
of observation. 

While this construction was going on, Captain F had 
his B. C. telescope set up some distance away, under the 
shadow of a tree where it would not attract aerial observa- 
tion, but whence the battery position, the aiming point, and 
the sector of observation could be seen, and proceeded to 
get firing data for a number of places in his sector, taking 
them in the following order: H. Swisher, Geo. Spangler, 
Powers Hill; M. Fiscel, Swartz Estate, W. Conover, road 
corner northwest of G. Gilbert, Black, and hill 592; road 
corner 479, St. Mary's Church, road corner 425, road cor- 
ner southeast of 537 ; Topper's, 525, and the crest between 
the Low Dutch Road and White Run. 

The Executive Officer, meantime, reported that the 
guns could clear their mask at ranges varying from 1,500 
to 2,000 yards ; also, that they could clear the saddle be- 
tween the Round Tops, at ranges permitting fire on the 
foreground of the trenches from a point east of hill 527, to 
one east of hill 528. 

Captain F again consulted with the battalion comman- 
der, and reported that an auxiliary station south of Little 
Round Top would be necessary to enable him to fire on the 
south sector; that, in the north sector, there would be a 
dead space in front of the trenches of from 200 to 1,000 
yards. 

Reconnaissance to the front by Lieutenant H 

At 12-30 P. M., Lieutenant H, with two scouts, re- 
ported to his regimental commander at E. W^eikart's. Cap- 
tain D, the adjutant, oriented him as to the situation, and 
as to localities, streams, routes, positions of advance troops, 
etc., and directed him as follows: 

You will reconnoiter from the enemy's point of view, and re- 
port upon, the area between the road 450 — 393W — 546, and Littles 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 123 

Run, as far east as the road 549— Two Taverns. 

Lieutenant I is to reconnoiter the country north of you, the 2d 
Battalion that to the south of you. 

Proceed via 393W to the further limit of your area and work 
back. 

Mark on your map all possible positions for hostile ai-tillery and 
routes thereto. 

You have ample time for the reconnaissance, so make it thorough. 

Lieutenant H started for Two Taverns at a six-mile 
gait (walk and trot). At 1-20 P. M., he arrived at 491 
crossroad, where he found the headquarters of the 1st In- 
fantry, and reported himself and his business to the com- 
manding officer before proceeding. The latter informed 
him that he would find a support at crossroads 546, the pa- 
trols of which were operating for a mile further to the front. 

At 1-30 P. M., he reported to the support commander 
at 546, told him his mission, inquired the location and direc- 
tion of outguards and patrols, and asked that they be no- 
tified of his presence and duty. 

The support commander agreed to do this, and inform- 
ed Lieutenant H that hostile cavalry patrols were believed 
to be in hiding about the country, that two had been seen ; 
and that the Blue cavalry had earlier in the day chased about 
half a troop of Red cavalry out of Germantown. Strong 
standing patrols from the support would be found along 
the road that runs south from Two Taverns. 

Lieutenant H devoted a few minutes to a study of the 
situation. Crossroad 546 was defiladed against Round Top, 
the most prominent observation point in the Blue position, 
by the trees 600 yards farther w^est, but was visible to the 
saddle between the Round Tops. It looked as though the 
slopes towards Topper's would be defiladed also. He rode 
to the edge of the woods toward 520, and noted that the 
long slopes to east and west must be open to view from 
Round Top. An enemy, then, could not enter his area un- 
observed, anywhere west of the woods about 1,000 yards 
to the southeast. He followed the worm fence to the cor- 
ner of these woods, and found that the woods on Round 
Top were in view over the trees at 546. A scout, sent to 
the head of the stream that passes Topper, reported him- 
self in view of Round Top all the way. 



124 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Lieutenant H then rode to Reaver's, stopping once or 
twice in low places to assure himself that he was not de- 
filaded against Round Top. An enemy, then, could not 
advance unobserved from the 520 — 549 road into the valley 
of Littles Run. 

At Reaver's he noted that the road Two Taverns — 
566 was defiladed against Round Top. Defilade against 
that point was what an advancing enemy would seek. 
It remained to be seen if the enemy using that road could 
advance still defiladed from it. He accordingly followed 
the road to Two Taverns, finding that place and the roads 
about, in full view of Round Top. The scattered trees 
along Littles Run and its branches, would afford only par- 
tial concealment to an advancing force. But no force of any 
size would take the trouble to leave the road at such a dis- 
tance from an enemy. The slopes north of the Run were 
apparently quite open to Round Top. 

An enemy, then, entering Lieutenant H's area, from 
any direction, M^ould be exposed to observation from at 
least one point in the Blue position. 

It remained to determine what an enemy might do 
after entering that area. 

Lieutenant H followed the road toward 546 to the large 
orchard. The west edge of the orchard and the stream line 
to the south, he marked as a position suitable for a bat- 
talion of artillery. Its covering crest, 200 yards to the 
west, was in full view of Round Top, as was all the ground 
about it. The position could not be occupied unobserved, 
unless by night. It was beyond the range of any Blue 
artillery, but within range, 5,500-6,000 yards, of the Blue 
trenches. Observation on the latter could be had from 
some point far to the front. 

Lieutenant H noted carefully the limits within which 
Red guns would have to be placed to utilize the position, 
for there was no reason to suppose that heavy artillery 
would not be sent to assist the division; and hostile artil- 
lery, in such a limited position, might be easily silenced 
by it. 

About 400 yards west of this crest, he found his view 
of Round Top cut off by the trees along the stream running 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 125 

north past Topper. He directed a scout to ride along the 
east side of the stream, just high enough up the east slope 
to see the summit of Round Top over the trees, noting 
from time to time his distance from the stream. Lieuten- 
ant H rode on and, about 100 yards short of 546, and for a 
short distance, found himself in view of Round Top. One 
hundred and fifty yards west of 546, he turned north on the 
road to Topper, and beginning at the worm fence on the left, 
found himself for about 100 yards in view of Round Top; 
when he reached the worm fence and woods on the right of 
the road. Round Top was hidden by the woods to the west. 

Two hundred yards further north. Round Top was 
again in sight, and remained so till he reached Topper, 
though the road he was on was not visible. It marked, prac- 
tically, the line of mounted defilade against Round Top. 

The ravine northwest of Topper and the valley of the 
stream through Topper, were both defiladed against Round 
Top, down to Littles Run. The valley of the latter, to the 
west, was defiladed by the trees east of 426W. 

A regiment of artillery could be accommodated in the 
area delimited by Lieutenant H and the scout, and the valley 
of Littles Run offered a hidden route of advance further to 
the front. It would be about 4,000 yards from the Blue 
infantry and 5,500 yards from the Blue artillery. It could 
enter the area from the direction of 563 with little expo- 
sure, even to view. After entering it, the area was so large 
that the artillery would be difficult to locate. 

Lieutenant H went over this area very carefully, noting 
every possible battery position and plotting it on his map, 
trying to imagine just how he would use the ground if he 
were the enemy. 

A ride around the woods west of the road 491 — 426 W, 
convinced him that an enemy would hardly care to advance 
with artillery west of the crest between the above road and 
the Topper road ; he would not only be exposed in doing so, 
but was likely to get caught in march formation, either on 
the slopes or at the foot. But a battery might be placed 
in the western edge of each of the groves east of the road. 
He then went to Littles Run, and followed that stream 
down, reaching the road running south from J. Fostle with- 



126 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

out exposure to Round Top except for a short distance 
southeast of M. Fiscel. This, then, marked a line of ad- 
vance from the Topper position to the line M. Fiscel — J. 
Schwartz, 1,500 yards nearer the Blue position. 

He noted that the orchard at M. Fiscel could be occu- 
pied unobserved ; and noted it, too, as a battalion position. 
Though outside his area, it would have to be occupied via 
his area, hence. he felt that he should note it. A similar 
position, with some advantages over the orchard position, 
he noted in the ravine to the northeast of it. 

He next examined the terrain about J. Schwartz, find- 
ing good positions for several batteries ; positions that 
might not be deemed as of high class in the early stages 
of an engagement, but that would be deemed excellent for 
infantry batteries to occupy later, under cover of the fire of 
counter batteries. 

Lieutenant H next crossed Rock Creek by the bridge 
at 393W, and followed up its western bank to the mouth 
of the small stream flowing into it from J. Bushman. He 
noted the extent and location of all the shallow places where 
infantry might cross, the space available for massing troops 
at each, and the amount and character of cover available. 

He next rode southwest across hill 471 to the woods on 
its southwest slope, and south to the line 418-450 road, de- 
limiting the defilade afforded by the woods. Arriving at 
the road, he went to headquarters to report. 



DIVISION CAMP 

(CaI'TAIN t'iSKlO 

Situation XV 



Division Headquarters to 6-30 P. M. 

Shortly after 10-00 A. M., the 1st Brigade began to en- 
counter the enemy's mounted patrols. Thereafter, the hos- 
tile reconnaissance grew continually more persistent and 
was supported by larger bodies ; by 5-30 P. M., in the face 
of strong forces of all arms, the reenforced 1st Brigade has 
safely withdrawn to the west side of Rock Creek, the 1st 
Infantry via Powers Hill, the remainder south of Willow 
Grove S. H. At 6-00 P. M., the brigade commander re- 
ported the bulk of his command on the line Hoffman — Ballin- 
ger, with detachments holding the Rock Creek crossings 
west of Barlow and Mt. Joy Church. He also reported his 
ambulances full of wounded. The 1st Infantry was march- 
ing west by knoll 592. The 1st Cavalry, at 5-00 P. M., re- 
ported its position one half mile west of Myers Mill, west 
of Harney. Strong hostile cavalry was then about Harney. 

By 6-00 P. M., the advanced troops of the 2d Division 
have also been driven west of Rock Creek. 

The intrenching of the 2d and 3d Brigades will not be 
completed before 9-00 P. M, Each brigade has small se- 
curity detachments along Rock Creek. The enemy has as 
yet (6-00 P. M.)made no serious attempts to cross. 

Passable wagon trai% have been cut as follows : One 
connecting the farm road east of Vincent Spur with the one 
crossing Plum Run east of M. Bushman; one along the 
stream south of Round Top to its mouth, and thence west to 
the road bend 400 yards north of crossroads 540. 

The farm road southwest of J. A. Wolfe has been con- 
nected with the one ending 500 yards west of the nearby 
knoll 522. A wagon trail also connects the farm road at J. 
Biesecker with the Emmitsburg road due east thereof. The 
corresponding crossings of Willoughby Run have been put 
in good condition. 

Field trains were refilled in Emmitsburg last night. 

127 



128 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

All supply trains are full. (Sketch 2 shows the division — 
less reserve and cavalry, at 6-00 P. M.) 

At 5-00 P. M., the following orders were received from 
army headquarters: 

1st Cavalry Division camps tonight north of plainview; 3d 
Division, goldenville; 4th, mummasburg; 5th, mcknightstown. 

Refilling point for 1st Division, Marshall on W. M. R. R. ; for 
2d Division, seven stars. 

A drizzling rain is falling; temperature about 45 de- 
grees. 

Required : 

Complete orders, commander, 1st Division, for the 
night, whether issued before or after 6-00 P. M. 

(Time for solution, three hours) 



Solution 

Orders, commander, 1st Division : 

1st Div., 

ROUND TOP. 

17 March, 15, 5-10 P. M. 
Lt. Col. K (Comdr. Tns.) : 

Division camps. Send field trains 2d Brig, to crossroads 580, 

Artillery (less 1st Bn. 1st L. A.), Signal Troops and Engineers to 

'10 p \T emmitsburg road east of J. biesecker farm, 3d Brig, to J. a. wolfe, 

o-iw p. M. leenforced 1st Brigade and 1st Cavalry to greenmount. Release 2d 

Am. Co. Except as detached, trains camp present location. Orders, 

ROUND TOP, 6-30 P. M. 

By command, Maj. Gen. A: 
X, 
C. of S. 
By messenger. 

1st Div., 

ROUND TOP, 

17 March, 15, 5-20 P. M. 
Gen. E. (Artillery) : 
5-20 a. m. 2d Am. Co., at your disposal. ' Refilling point Marshall on 

W. M. R. R. Route your wagons by scoTT — roadfork 564. Exj>edite 
refilling ammunition train. 

By command, Maj. Gen. A: 
X, 
C. of S. 



By messenger. 



1st Div., 

ROUND TOP, 

17 March, 15, 5-30 P. M. 



Col. F (1st Cav.) : 

o-<itU P. M. jg^ Brig, camps at GREEN mount; secures from plum run to 

marsh creek. If enemy compels your withdrawal from present po- 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 129 

sition, fall back to vicinity knoll 604, 1^ miles southeast of fairplay. 
Destroy monocacy bridges at myers mill and southeast of bolinger 
s. H. Your field trains will be sent to greenmount, Avhere you can also 
obtain ammunition. Send your wounded to camp of trains 1 mile 
north of mcgreary s. h. 

By command, Maj. Gen. A: 
X, 
C. of S. 
By messenger patrol. 

1st Div., 

ROUND TOP. 

17 March, 15, 5-45 P. M. 
Gen. B (Comdg. 1st Brig.) : 

Your detachment will camp at greenmount. 

Provide security from willow grove s. h. to marsh creek. 5-45 P. M. 
Connect with 3d Brig, on plum run. Destroy rock creek bridges 
south of PLUM RUN. 1st Cav., at 5-00 P. M., was west of harney. 
If compelled to, it will withdraw to vicinity of knoll 604, 1| miles 
southeast of fairplay. Orders at round top at 6-30 P. M. 

By command, Maj. Gen. A.: 
X, 
C. of S. 
By messenger. 

1st Div., 
round top, 

17 March, 15, 6-30 P. M. 
Lt. Col. K: 

Field trains will be at your camp by 4-00 A. M. Refill at once. (? on p ,t 
Refilling point for Division at Marshall on W. M. R. R. Empties 
supply train will be held till 6-00 A. M. for transport wounded to 

MARSHALL. 

By command, Maj. Gen. A.: 
X, 
C. of S. 

To representatives detailed to receive orders. 

1st Div., 
round top, 
17 March, 15, 6-30 P. M. 
Lt. Col. M. D.: 

Empties supply train will be available at camp of trains until 
6-00 A. M. for transport wounded to MARSHALL on W. M. R. R. 

By command, Maj. Gen. A.: 
X, 
C. of S. 
Handed to Lt. Col. 

1st Div., 

ROUND top, 

17 March, 15, 6-30 P. M. 
Field Orders, 
No. 6 

Gettysburg 3" 

1. Strong hostile forces of all arms have advanced to the vi- 
cinity of ROCK CREEK, over the front of the 1st and 2d Divisions. 

2. This Division will camp for the night. g_oQ p j^ 

3. (a) 2d Brig., along plum run, northwest of little round 

TOP. 



6-30 P. M. 



130 PROBLEMS IN TROOP LEADING 

Art. JBrig. (less 1 Bn.) west of round top. Pieces will be left 
in position. 

3d Brig, along plum run, west of knolls 527 and 528. 
Reenforced 1st Brig., about greenmount. 
Eng. and Sig. Bns. with the Ai't. 

(b) Security will be furnished along rock creek: by the 2d 
Brig, from mcallister hill, connecting with the 2d Division, to the 
stream south of F. (h). swisher farmhouse; by the 3d Brig., from 
that stream to plum run near willow grove s. h.; by the 1st Brig., 
from PLUM run near willow grove s. h. to marsh creek near road 
junction 401. The 1st Brig, will destroy all bridges over rock creek 
in its sector. 

1st Cav. will destroy all bridges at MYERS mill and to the south. 

(c) Sig. Troops will connect VAUGHN farmhouse with round 

TOP and GREENMOUNT. 

(x) The work of intrenching will be pushed to completion. 
Strong detachments will then be left in the trenches for the night. 

No animals will be watered from plum run north of the 540- 
469 road. 

4. Field trains will join troops. Those of the 2d Brig, are at 
crossroads 580, of Artillery (less 1 bn.), Eng. and Sig, Bns. on EM- 
mitsburg road east of J. biesecker. of 3d Brig, at J. A. wolfe, of re- 
enforced 1st Brig, and 1st Cav. at greenmount. 

Field trains will be returned to camp of trains i mile west of 
J. SACHS farmhouse, by 4-00 A. M. tomorrow. 

5. Division Hq. at Vaughn farmhouse, on emmitsburg road. 

A, 
Maj. Gen. 

Copies to officers detailed to receive. 



Situation XVI 

3d Brigade 
Required ; 

Orders, commander, 3d Brigade . 

Solution 

Orders, commander, 3d Brigade : 

Verbally, at 7-00 P. M., on road between knolls 527 
and 528, to assembled colonels : 

The enemy has advanced in strength to the vicinity of Rock 
Creek over the whole front of the 1st and 2d Divisions. 

The 1st Brigade has withdrawn to Greenmount, and secures 
from Willow Grove S. H. to the south. The 2d Brigade secures fuom 
the stream south of F. (H.) Swisher to the north. 

This Brigade will camp for the night: 

The 7th Infantry, south of the stream heading west of E. 
Weikart, and west of knoll 527. 

The 8th Infantry, east of Plum Run. north of the 540—469 road. 

The 9th Infantry, west of Plum Run, south of the 540 — 469 road. 

The intrenching will be pushed to completion. When the 7th 
and 8th regiments withdraw to camp, each will leave the equivalents 



ON THE DEFENSIVE 131 

of not less than two companies in its trenches. 

Fires are permitted in the camping areas. All animals will be 
watered in Plum Run south of knoll 528. 

The 9th Infantry will outpost the line F. (H.) Swisher, exclu- 
sive, Diener — roadfork 418 — stream junction north of Willow Grove 
S. H., with not less than six companies. The outpost will withdraw 
if seriously attacked. 

Field trains are at J. A. Wolfe at the disposal of regimental 
commanders. At 2-00 A. M. those of the 7th Infantry will be on the 
engineer's wagon trail facing west, head near the 540 — J. A. Wolfe 
road. Those of the 9th and 8th Infantry, in the order named, will be 
in column on the 540 — 469 road, head at 540. 

Division headquarters tonight at Vaughn farmhouse. 

Brigade headquarters at farmhouse northwest of knoll 528. 

Verbally, by brigade adjutant to Captain Q (Q. M. 9th 
Inf.) : 

The field trains of the Brigade are ordered assembled at 2-00 
A. M.; the 7th Infantry on the wagon ti-ail facing west, head near 
540 — J. A. Wolfe road; 9th and 8th Infantry, in the order named, 
in column on the 540 — 469 road, head at 540. The brigade commander 
directs that you march them via J. A. Wolfe— knoll 552 — Trastle — 
McGreary S. H. to knoll 504 south of Marsh Creek, and report them 
to the commander, trains, by 4-00 A. M. 



.>'-f-' 






f -4'i^-''^-. 










■ir' ■ -viV^^'-^Vv ■■'%";" ".'■'''■"'A- v.'7*'''l <-4'"'';;r-'^''''v''''' " '^ 



